The large number of enquiries received by the BHAB show that there is a need for basic guidelines on this subject. These are given here but more detailed information is available from the Civil Aviation Authority, AS4.

Any owner of a piece of ground may use it as a helicopter landing facility without any kind of permission, provided the following conditions are met:

1. a. It is not in a congested area, as defined in Article 90 of the Air Navigation Order 1976, that is, any area which is substantially used for residential, industrial, commercial or recreational purposes.

   (Note: In this context, the CAA considers the term “substantial’ to mean 50% or more.)

2. b. No structure is erected in connection with its use as a helicopter landing area, eg concrete landing pad, hangar,etc, other than a temporary structure such as a windsock.

3. c. Its usage is confined to the private or business use of the owner, his employees or anyone specifically visiting him for social or business purposes.

4. d. A pilot using the site will be able to conform with Rule 5 of the Rules of the Air and Air Traffic Control Regulations 1976.