Is flying over SSSIs illegal?

[ximi]

This thread has a good discussion of SSSI’s

Is flying over SSSIs illegal?

I am constantly seeing people on social media saying that flying over a SSSI (site of special scientific interest) is illegal. However I have yet to see any legislation to say that it is. Is it illegal? Yes there may be birds nesting on SSSIs at certain times of the year - but then they also cover areas of special interest by virtue of its fauna, flora, geological or physiographical / geomorphological features. Or is it poor generalisation of Drone Police?

Basically, it depends …