Where can you land a helicopter?
Discussion
UK rules are fairly generous, but there are restrictions. You are supposed to have land owner's consent and there are strict rules regarding built up areas. Some movements are subject to CAA approval. And, even where there are no restrictions, most pilots try to be fairly circumspect to avoid aggrevating neighbours.
As above - pretty much anywhere you like in the UK, but you have to have the landowners consent.
If it's your own property ("your own curtilage" I think the phrase is), then you can use it to your hearts content* without planning permission provided it is for private use. The only permanent structure you are allowed to construct in this instance is a windsock.
(*) = until your neighbours complain.
The definition of curtilage is a bit vague. If the area you are landing in is not considered to be your curtilage then you'd be subject to the 28 day rule which means you can only "temporarily change use" of the land for helicopter arrivals/departures for 28 days out of the year.
I know of helicopter pilots operating from their homes that have land attached and have landscaped the area to make the landing area appear to be part of the garden. Circular patios with optional disco lighting are very popular with chopper pilots apparently.
If it's your own property ("your own curtilage" I think the phrase is), then you can use it to your hearts content* without planning permission provided it is for private use. The only permanent structure you are allowed to construct in this instance is a windsock.
(*) = until your neighbours complain.
The definition of curtilage is a bit vague. If the area you are landing in is not considered to be your curtilage then you'd be subject to the 28 day rule which means you can only "temporarily change use" of the land for helicopter arrivals/departures for 28 days out of the year.
I know of helicopter pilots operating from their homes that have land attached and have landscaped the area to make the landing area appear to be part of the garden. Circular patios with optional disco lighting are very popular with chopper pilots apparently.

Edited by mattdaniels on Monday 31st January 07:28
I remember a guy landing a helicopter at the end of southend (I think) pier. Relevent authorities weren't happy and tried to revoke his license. At the hearing, it was deemed that at no point was anyone in danger, and all was good.
I'll try to find a link. otherwise this is just a pointless post.
I'll try to find a link. otherwise this is just a pointless post.
Since we're doing photos...
My neighbour (along with his helicopter mates) lands 7/8 every year in his paddock which borders our place:

Last year, there must have been around £10 million worth of helicopters in less than an acre! When you see it up close, the sight of them all coming into land really makes you appreciate the pilot's skills.
My neighbour (along with his helicopter mates) lands 7/8 every year in his paddock which borders our place:

Last year, there must have been around £10 million worth of helicopters in less than an acre! When you see it up close, the sight of them all coming into land really makes you appreciate the pilot's skills.
wiffmaster said:
Since we're doing photos...
My neighbour (along with his helicopter mates) lands 7/8 every year in his paddock which borders our place:

Last year, there must have been around £10 million worth of helicopters in less than an acre! When you see it up close, the sight of them all coming into land really makes you appreciate the pilot's skills.
Is that a privately owned Gazelle?My neighbour (along with his helicopter mates) lands 7/8 every year in his paddock which borders our place:

Last year, there must have been around £10 million worth of helicopters in less than an acre! When you see it up close, the sight of them all coming into land really makes you appreciate the pilot's skills.
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