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Drone Laws in Singapore

Summary of Drone Laws in Singapore

Hobbyist Drone Laws For Residents of Singapore

Drone Operations in Singapore are currently regulated.

  • Hobbyist drone flights are allowed in Singapore
  • Hobbyist Singapore drone pilot license is required if flying over 1.5kg drone
  • Hobbyist Drone registration is required in Singapore for hobbyists flying over 250g drone
  • Drone Remote ID is not required in Singapore for hobbyists
  • Drone Insurance is not required but recommended for hobbyists’ drone operations in Singapore

Read below for more details on Hobbyist Drone Laws in Singapore and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Commercial Drone Laws For Residents of Singapore

Drone Operations in Singapore are currently regulated.

  • Commercial drone flights are allowed in Singapore
  • Commercial Singapore drone pilot license is required
  • Commercial Drone registration is required in Singapore for commercial drone operators
  • Drone Remote ID is not required in Singapore for Commercial Drone Operators
  • Drone Insurance is not required for commercial drone operations in Singapore

Read below for more details on Commercial Drone Laws in Singapore and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Drone Regulations For Visitors To Singapore

Drone Operations in Singapore are currently regulated.

  • Foreign visitor drone flights are allowed in Singapore
  • Foreign visitor drone pilot license is required
  • Drone registration is required in Singapore for visitors/tourists
  • Drone Remote ID is not required in Singapore for tourists
  • Drone Insurance is not required but recommended for tourist drone operations in Singapore

Read below for more details on Drone Laws in Singapore for Visitors (Tourists) and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Drone Rules For Government Drone Operators in Singapore

Drone Operations in Singapore are currently regulated.

  • Government drone flights are allowed in Singapore
  • Government drone pilot license is required
  • Drone registration is required in Singapore for Government operations
  • Drone Remote ID is not required in Singapore for Government operations
  • Drone Insurance is not required for Government drone operations in Singapore

Read below for more details on Drone Laws in Singapore for Government Drone Operations and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Agencies Responsible for regulating drones in the Republic of Singapore

Drone Regulator: Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS)

Contact Information

If you need additional details we have not covered or specific case help, contact the Civil Aviation Authority at:

  • Address: Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, 60 Airport Boulevard, 4th Story, Terminal 2, Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore 819643
  • Phone: +65-6542-1122
  • Email: saa@caas.gov.sg

Please continue reading for more details on Singapore Drone Laws.

UAS Laws – General rules for flying drones in Singapore

The Singapore agency responsible for drone safety, CAAS, has provided several internet-accessible details on flying for fun or work. The highlights are enumerated below. For more details, go to the link above.

Are drones allowed in Singapore?

According to the CAAS, flying drones is legal in Singapore, but specific regulations must be strictly followed. Continue reading for more details.

Here are the most important rules to know for flying a drone in Singapore:

All drones weighing more than 250 grams must be registered in Singapore. 

Recreational pilots operating drones weighing between 1.5 and 7 kilograms must complete UA Basic Training. 

A permit is not required to fly a drone that weighs less than 7 kilograms (15 pounds) and is flown at a height of fewer than 200 feet. 

A permit is required if the drone weighs more than 7 kilograms (15 pounds) or is flown above 60 meters (200 feet).

  • Drones are not permitted to fly over people or crowds. 
  • Drones must avoid interfering with emergency response personnel or flying over vehicles where their presence could distract the driver. 
  • Drones cannot be flown within an airport’s 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) radius. 
  • Drones are permitted to be flown only during daylight hours. You may fly your unmanned aircraft (UA) at night if you can maintain a visual line of sight with your UA at all times. You must ensure enhanced lighting on your UA for greater visibility when flying at night.
  • Drone pilots must always maintain visual contact with their drones.

Drone Registration Requirements in Singapore?

Only individuals aged 16 and older are eligible to register drones. 

Two steps are required for registration: 

Singapore requires drone pilots to obtain a permit to fly in any of the following circumstances: 

  • Flights greater than 200 feet 
  • Aeronautical flights in restricted airspace 
  • For all business-related flights (i.e., commercial flights)

Singapore UA Pilot Licence

Users who operate their UA under the following conditions are required to obtain a UA Pilot Licence (UAPL):

  • For commercial purposes or for a purpose that is neither recreational nor educational, regardless of the UA weight or
  • For recreational or educational purposes and with a UA of total weight exceeding 7kg.

However, a UAPL is not required within an indoor location that is not publicly accessible, except when the purpose is for:

  • a sporting activity such as a competitive race or tournament, or
  • An event that more than 50 individuals attend at any time during the event.

To obtain a UAPL, you must:
a) Pass a theory test administered by CAAS;
b) Pass a practical assessment conducted by an Authorised Flight Examiner within a UA training and assessment organisation (UATO); and
c) Be at least 16 years old at the point of UAPL application.

You are strongly encouraged to complete a training programme with any CAAS-approved UATOs to acquire the relevant theoretical knowledge and practical experience before attempting the theory test and practical assessment. The list of CAAS-approved UATOs is published here.

Please click here to book a theory test. Upon passing both the theory test and practical assessment, please click here to apply for a UAPL.

Additional Note For Foreign Operators

You must first apply for a UAPass account at the online UA Portal. The processing time of the UAPass takes about 5 working days. Therefore, applying for your UAPass account before you visit Singapore is recommended.

You can order the registration label online, but it cannot be shipped to international addresses. 

Each label is $15. Anyone not a Singaporean citizen or permanent resident may order only one label and must apply for additional labels. 

You can purchase the registration label over the counter at designated SingPost outlets. For over-the-counter purchases, the following is required:

a)      Completed physical copy of the UA Registration Label Purchase Form; and

b)      Original and photocopy of your Passport.

You may also purchase the registration label online. However, you will need a local address as the delivery is only made in Singapore. After you have affixed the registration label on your UA, log in to the online UA Portal with your UAPass account to complete the registration.

Notes for recreational drone pilots flying for fun in Singapore

Drone SingaporeIf you are flying your UA indoors:If you are flying your UA outdoors: 
Registration Requirements Register your UA if the total weight exceeds 250g.Register your UA if the total weight exceeds 250g. 
Pilot RequirementsYou will need to obtain either a UA Basic Training Certificate or a UA Pilot Licence if the total weight of your UA exceeds 1.5kg but weighs less than or equal to 7kg, and if you are flying your UA:
1. in a place that is publicly accessible; or
2. for an event that is attended by more than 50 individuals at any time during the event.

You will require a UA Pilot Licence if the total weight of your UA exceeds 7kg, and if you are flying your UA:
1. in a place that is publicly accessible; or
2. for an event that is attended by more than 50 individuals at any time during the event.		You will need to obtain either a UA Basic Training Certificate or a UA Pilot Licence if the total weight of your UA exceeds 1.5kg but weighs less than or equal to 7kg.

You will require a UA Pilot Licence if the total weight of your UA exceeds 7kg. 
Singapore Drone Permit RequirementsYou will need both an Operator Permit and a Class 1 Activity Permit if you are flying your UA for an event that is attended by more than 50 individuals at any time during the event.You will need a Class 2 Activity Permit if the total weight of your UA does not exceed 25kg, but you are flying your UA:
1. at an altitude exceeding 200 feet above mean sea level; or
2. within any restricted / danger / protected area; or
3. within 5km of any airport or military airbase.

You will require both an Operator Permit and a Class 1 Activity Permit if:
1. the total weight of your UA exceeds 25kg, regardless of the location and height at which you fly your UA; or
2. you are flying your UA beyond visual line-of-sight, regardless of the weight of your UA.

Notes for operating Commercial Drone Services in Singapore

Drone SingaporeIf you are flying your UA indoors:If you are flying your UA outdoors: 
Registration Requirements Register your UA if the total weight exceeds 250g.Register your UA if the total weight exceeds 250g. 
Pilot RequirementsYou will require a UA Pilot Licence if you are flying your UA:
1. in a place that is publicly accessible; or
2. for a sporting activity such as a competitive race or tournament; or
3. for an event that is attended by more than 50 individuals at any time during the event.		Regardless of the weight of your UA, the location, and the height at which you fly your UA, you will need a UA Pilot Licence.
Singapore Drone Permit RequirementsYou will need both an Operator Permit and a Class 1 Activity Permit if you are flying your UA for: 
1. a sporting activity that forms part of an organised group activity or organised competition, race or tournament; or
2. an event that more than 50 individuals attend at any time during the event.		Regardless of the weight of your UA, the location and height at which you fly your UA, you will need an Operator Permit and a Class 1 Activity Permit.

Useful published information on drone flying Singapore

Here is a sample of what you might expect if you follow the drone laws and fly in Singapore…

Authoritative Sources of Information on Singapore Drone Laws

We will attempt to keep an updated list of online authoritative links to regulators and other official websites here:

NOTE: This page is about the Regulation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (SUAS), Small UAS, Remote Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS), unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), and drone are interchangeable terms unless specified. Model Aircraft, toy, remote-controlled, and RC aircraft may be covered by the same regulations unless specified.

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Click here to read our Comprehensive Guide For Traveling With A Drone.

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90 responses to “Drone Laws in Singapore”

  1. Jason Ho

    Is a selfie camera drone like the HoverAir X1 allowed to be used at the HDB void deck. It does not have a built in GPS, it’s pocket sized when folded and weighs only 110g. The maximum flying height is just 15m and the range is just 30m. It’s used primarily to do dolly or track shots of the user.

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Jason, we don’t see any regulations prohibiting this use. We recommend you contact the HDB for a more precise answer.

      Reply
  2. Lauren

    Hello, I am wondering if someone can help me with what appears to be a bit of a grey area please.
    I am flying to Singapore next week, staying for 1 night, then onwards travel to Bali. I hope to take my drone with me to Bali which falls into the weight category of needing a license for Singapore – However, I do not plan to use the drone in Singapore.
    Is this possible? Do I need to apply for any permits to simply bring the drone into the country and take it to another country with me?
    Thank you in advance, Lauren

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Lauren, Singapore authorities may allow you to leave the drone at the airport with customs for pickup on your departure.

      Reply
  3. E.1

    A drone less than 250g fly less than 200 feet for multiple HDB block rooftop within office hours Mon-Fri…
    Purpose – Ensure compliance & monitoring of work activity carried out by work personnel. What will be the classification? Recreational / Commercial?

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Commercial

      Reply
  4. Nono

    Hi, just wanted to make sure before I bring my Drone. I do have a DJI mini 2 senwhich is just 249g and no need for any registrations and license as what I understood above. But to be clear, upon arrival at Singapore, do I still need to do anything? Like do I need or am I required to declaire my drone even if I it’s on my hand carry luggage?

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      You should declare the drone upon arrival.

      Reply
  5. Johnny Hoo

    Hi, is drone (middle – large scale type) with camera attached operates (by town council – so they say) and records everything thing on every floors and every units by flying outside viewing through the windows? Is that even allow? Isn’t that a violation to a person’s privacy? Even it’s by town council, shouldn’t there be notice to notify the residents? Even calling police telling them about it, and when they learn it’s town council, they says they can’t do anything… Does that mean that any drones operating by any government groups are allow to use the attached camera to view everyone on every floor as and when they wants??

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Johnny, we recommend you collect evidence of these events including video if possible. The circumstances sound unusual, and perhaps infringing on privacy rules. We recommend you contact law enforcement and the regulator. You should get legal advice also.

      Reply
  6. Harold

    Can I buy a UA registration label even tho my drone is less than 250g?

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Our understanding is that you can do so, even though it may not be necessary.

      Reply
  7. Issac

    Hi,

    I am a SG PR and is coming back to SG soon, a second hand drone will be come with me and it is less than 250g, may I know :

    – does purchase receipt be needed ?
    – do I need to declare when I arrive SG ? If so, how and when to do it ?
    – do I need a license / permit to operate my drone in SG ? If so, how and where to apply ?
    – does my drone need a license / permit ? If so, where and when to apply ?
    – how can I know the restriction area in SG for operating my drone ?
    – as I am a beginner, can I practice at void deck area of HDB ?

    Thanks

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Issac, most of your questions are answered above. You will need to declare the drone to a customs official upon arrival with the drone into Singapore.

      Reply
  8. Brtk

    I would like to fly from Thailand to Singapore with my drone FIMI X8 MINI (250g). I’m not going to use the drone in Singapore.

    What are my obligations? No registration since its not more than 250g. Do I have to do anything in this case?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      If you will not be using the drone in Singapore, you should declare it at customs and mention that. They may allow you to keep it, or hold it at the airport for you to get when you are departing

      Reply
      1. Brtk

        Now I can share my experience since I arrived in Singapore some days ago.

        I went directly to customs and told them about my drone. They scanned my backpack, opened it and wanted to see the drone. They asked questions like how far the drone can fly (I couldn’t answer because I did not know off the top of my head).

        I told them that it is a very small drone (<250g) and I'm not planing to use the drone. I think the honesty helped and they let me keep it.

        Bringing it to Thailand was no matter at all and all airports/airlines (Emirates, Thai Airways, Airasia and Scoot) were fine with a drone and separated lithium batteries.

        Reply
        1. Merlin at Drone Laws

          Thank you for sharing

          Reply
  9. Purusothaman M

    Is there any problem if I import a 150gm drone from China to Singapore?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Just follow the rules for import

      Reply
  10. Frank

    I want to use my mini 2 in Singapore next month. Does somebody has experience if the Dji geo zone is reliable about areas where you can fly and not? I find the One Map app a bit confusing. According my research flying next to marina Beach should be possible if you stay below 60 meter, can somebody confirm this?

    Reply
  11. Ben

    Hello

    I come with my drone(800 gr) in Singapour but don’t intend to use it.Do I have to register online before I landed or I just need to declare at the immigration when I’ll arrive ??

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Declare upon arrival.

      Reply
  12. Sherry

    Hello,
    I have a trip to singapore next month. I plan to bring my drone with me.
    I don’t know how to declare it to get through customs smoothly. If I don’t declare it, will my drone be detained?
    Thanks!

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      When you arrive in Singapore, you will go through immigration and customs. There you will have the option to declare your drone. You should check with the import/customs departments for the rules on declarations.

      Reply
      1. Sherry

        So after I arrived Singapore, may be I need to declare my drone to customs prior exiting if the customs request, right? How can I check with import/customs department for the rule on declarations? I don’t have any information. I am afraid my drone will be take by singapore customs.
        My drone is DJI MINI SE (249G) and I no need to register, right? Do Singapore allow foreigner like me fly it?

        Reply
        1. Merlin at Drone Laws

          You declare when you arrive. We have not heard of any issues with your drone. If the drone is not allowed, they will keep it and return it to you on departure.
          Foreigners are allowed to fly in unrestricted areas following the instructions above.

          Reply
  13. Adrian Tan

    Very ambiguous info on small drones less than 250g other than no registration required. Then all the requirements are tagged with drones heavier than 250g.

    Simply said: where can one fly small drones less than 250g for recreational purposes? Or which (what categories) areas in OneMap are not allowed to fly drones of less than 250g?

    Reply
    1. Adrian Tan

      Also, no flying zone due to near proximity to airport ie obstruction to flights.
      So can one still fly a drone below building heights?

      Reply
    2. Merlin at Drone Laws

      No drones equipped with cameras, regardless of size, can be flown in restricted areas.

      Reply
  14. JZNI

    Can i fly tello drone under my hdb block or hdb multipurpose hall (not in open area) in no fly zone area?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Indoor flights are not regulated, but you must get the building owner permission.

      Reply
  15. Shan

    Hi. Are there any telegram groups for Drone enthusiasts?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Not sure, but maybe someone int he community can help

      Reply
  16. Shan Wee

    Hi. Is there any telegram group for hobbyist drone?

    Reply
  17. Faiz

    Hi,
    I have a business purpose for project monitoring (using the drone), what should I do for entering Singapore and use the drone for business purposes?
    1. drone registration
    2. permit

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      You should follow the commercial activity requirements on this page. You will also need to contact the regulator for specific instructions on your project approval.

      Reply
  18. Yash

    is it ok to unlock my DJI in the restricted zones just to get some photographs of my team playing in CCA. the drone will be hovering at less than 10m from the ground.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      You may not fly a drone in restricted areas without prior approval.

      Reply
    2. Robert

      Can I fly my drone indoors. I am staying near Sembawang airfield

      Reply
      1. Merlin at Drone Laws

        Indoor drone flights are not regulated but you must receive the building owner permission to do so.

        Reply
  19. WW

    After I read the section “pilots must always maintain visual contact with their drones”, I wonder if FPV drone (or a normal drone with goggles) considered have visual contact all the time…

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Visual contact refers to being able to see the drone from your position, it does not refer to the control method. There may be specific restrictions on FPV operation. Please check with the regulator.

      Reply
  20. Sam

    Hi, just to check if my compound is out of the no fly zone, can I fly my drone up to 50m building ?
    It is phantom 4, weighs 1380g.
    Are there any permit or requirements I need to comply?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Your drone must be registered.
      Your building must be outside the no-fly zone.
      You can fly a maximum of 400 feet above land.

      Reply
  21. Ben

    Hi

    Thanks for your good advice here. I have a question about drones less than 250g.

    Can they be used around Clarke Quay at a height of less than 5m? I am looking to do aerial shots of some of the statues in the area? It would not be above people etc but I am guessing that because the area is so close to Parliament house that it would be restricted space but does this apply to sub 250g drones?

    Thanks

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Ben our understanding is that restricted airspace do not exempt the nano drones from the restriction. We always recommend contacting the regulators for definitive answers.

      Reply
  22. Kim C Ong

    It is not drone specific the regulation is referring to. It is for ALL UA (Unmanned Aerial) vehicles that are remotely operated. A home made paper airplane if it weighs more 250g need to be registered and paid for. However, you are not required to go for a one-time operator course (payable) if that paper airplane weighs less than 1,500g. The airspace restriction and airport proximity apply to your paper airplane during operation.

    Reply
  23. Robert Lee

    “The altitude of the small unmanned aircraft cannot be higher than 400 feet (120 meters) above ground level unless the small unmanned aircraft is (1) flown within a 400-foot radius of a structure, and (2) does not fly higher than 400 feet above the structure’s immediate uppermost limit.”
    Most of us early birds followed this FAA guideline until local laws stipulated a height limit of 60 meters (200 feet). This means if we fly at West Coast Park we risk having our drones being snared by kite lines since the legal height limit for kites in Singapore is – you guessed it – 60 meters. Now that some minister has graciously initiated a “dedicated drone park”, perhaps some enlightened civil servant will allow us to fly higher? Please?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Robert, your link was about the USA regulations. In Singapore, the standard maximum altitude is 200ft or 60 meters as indicated above.

      Reply
  24. Stephen

    Hi, I note that you suggest that we check with CAAS regarding some queries – implying you are not final authority on such questions – who in CAAS should we write to? Thank you.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Stephen, we are not the regulator, we are a team of volunteers that are trying to make it easier for drone operators to understand the regulations and contact the regulators. We always recommend getting in touch with the regulators for the latest information and definitive advice.

      If you follow the link at the top of the page to the regulator’s website, you will find their latest contact information. Best wishes

      Reply
  25. rwije

    Thanks for your informative article.
    I note that you mention that ” Drones are permitted to be flown only during daylight hours. ” This is my understanding too, however I can’t seem to find any reference to this rule in CAAS’ Rules.
    Could you enlighten me, please?
    Many thanks

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Updated: You may fly your unmanned aircraft (UA) at night if you are able to maintain visual line of sight with your UA at all times. You will need to ensure that there is enhanced lighting on your UA for greater visibility when flying at night.

      Reply
      1. rwije

        Thank you for the update Merlin!

        Reply
  26. reader

    I want to bring in m drone from another country, drone weight more than 250g, I already bought the CAAS sticker but unable to register it, can I bring in the drone to Singapore?
    I have no plans to fly it in Singapore, just going to bring it to other country to fly.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      You should declare the drone on entry. They may allow you to take the drone, or offer to keep the drone at the port of entry for you to pick up on your way to the final destination.

      Reply
  27. Anton

    Do I have to obtain an UA Pilot license for 450 gr drone if I’m not going to fly in restricted areas, and on height higher than 60m?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      No license required. Your drone must be registered though if it is more than 250g

      Reply
    2. JK

      above 60m ? you need apply for Class 2 AP

      Reply
  28. John

    Hi, do I follow the one map app as the park I going to fly say it out of no fly zone. But on npark website, it say can’t fly. Can I trust the app? I am confused and don’t wish to involve any trouble.

    Thanks

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Parks have their own regulations that may not be reflected in online maps. Follow the park regulations.

      Reply
  29. Dan

    Can I fly my drone that is below the 250g weight in my house that is located in a no fly zone

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Dan, typically the drone regulations apply to outdoor drone use in public settings, and indoor use is generally left to property owners. In our opinion, in this case, flying your drone in your own home would probably be ok. For a legal opinion, you should probably contact your local law enforcement or an attorney.

      Reply
  30. Peter leong

    Hi,
    Is there an android app or online map showing the permitted area to fly a drone less than 250gm?

    Reply
    1. N

      OneMap

      Reply
  31. John

    Are there any regulations stating that it is required to equip drones above 250g with a GPS tracker issued by CAAS?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      We are not aware of any such regulation. Drone regulators have been debating this and it has been implemented in some areas, but we don’t see anything from CAAS yet. Please let us know if you have found any recent regulations.

      Reply
  32. Alex Chua

    Are we allowed to fly at the beaches of Sentosa island?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Please check with CAAS and come back and let us know what you find out

      Reply
  33. tcw

    Does this kind of “selfie” drone subject to airspace restriction? It weights just 110 grams.

    “Pixy”

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      The Pixy drone is under the 250 grams so registration is not required.

      Reply
  34. André van Berlo

    Can i take my drone to Singapore without registering the drone. It is above 250 gram but i am not going to use it. I am going to Thailand and stay for 4 days in Singapore. Just want to make sure they do not take it at the airport because of the lack of registration.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Declare it when you arrive and they will either keep it at the airport or let you keep it with specific instructions.

      Reply
  35. Joe

    Can I fly a drone above 250g at public parks?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      If your drone is above 250g, it must be registered and can be flown in a public park if the park does not have drone restrictions.

      Reply
    2. N

      Drones are not allowed in Parks and Nature Reserves.

      Reply
  36. Jz

    I have a plan to go to Singapore for view days for holiday and I plan to bring my drones Aerial drone and FPV drone they both less than 249 grams. What should I do coz I do not want to break any regulation.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Drones under 250g don’t have to be registered. Follow the rules laid out above, and visit the regulator site linked above for more details.

      Reply
    2. JKK

      Download and Refer to OneMap app for fly zone. Refer to NParks website for park that flying zone is allowed.

      To my best knowledge.

      FPV if u are wearing the FPV goggles is a pretty grey area since at any one time u need to have VLOS ( or up to 400m) so generally u need a person with u to ensure VLOS while flying.

      Btw for class 1 activity permit, total weight exceeds 7kg u need the permit for education and not less than 7kg.

      Reply
  37. Jz

    I have a drone less than 249g. Can fly within in a enclosed multipurpose hall Or any area that has shelter within the area.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      In enclosed areas, you should get permission from the owner/manager of that facility. You are not required to register drones under 250g.

      Reply
  38. Aaron

    Hi, if I’m flying a drone below 200ft and ≤250g on private property in Singapore (assuming the private property isn’t in a restricted airspace), do I still need a permit?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Aaron, theoretically not, however, you may run afoul of privacy regulations which you should check.

      Reply
  39. Juraimi

    I bought new drone weight about 235 grams so register is not required. I already bought UA registration label at SiingPost.. can I keep for future drone if weight more than 250 grams. Thanks

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Juraimi, we dont see why not. However, for the most accurate recommendation, you should contact CAAS.

      Reply
  40. Amos Choy

    Drones are not permitted to be flown within a 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) radius of an airport.
    Does this applies to drones weighing less than 250grams.

    Thanks

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Amos, our understanding is that the rule applies to all drones.

      Reply
  41. Melvin

    What is the seller obligation during the sale of the drone? Does Seller requires to remind or request buyer to acknowledge the compliant of local laws as part of the sale process?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Melvin
      There are no specific rules in Singapore requiring sellers to inform buyers of drone regulation compliance. There may be warnings included in the package provided by most manufacturers, but those are not specific to any location.
      In general, the regulators expect the buyers to be familiar with and compliant with the local drone regulations.

      Reply

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90 thoughts on “Drone Laws in Singapore”

  1. Is a selfie camera drone like the HoverAir X1 allowed to be used at the HDB void deck. It does not have a built in GPS, it’s pocket sized when folded and weighs only 110g. The maximum flying height is just 15m and the range is just 30m. It’s used primarily to do dolly or track shots of the user.

    Reply

    • Jason, we don’t see any regulations prohibiting this use. We recommend you contact the HDB for a more precise answer.

      Reply

  2. Hello, I am wondering if someone can help me with what appears to be a bit of a grey area please.
    I am flying to Singapore next week, staying for 1 night, then onwards travel to Bali. I hope to take my drone with me to Bali which falls into the weight category of needing a license for Singapore – However, I do not plan to use the drone in Singapore.
    Is this possible? Do I need to apply for any permits to simply bring the drone into the country and take it to another country with me?
    Thank you in advance, Lauren

    Reply

    • Lauren, Singapore authorities may allow you to leave the drone at the airport with customs for pickup on your departure.

      Reply

  3. A drone less than 250g fly less than 200 feet for multiple HDB block rooftop within office hours Mon-Fri…
    Purpose – Ensure compliance & monitoring of work activity carried out by work personnel. What will be the classification? Recreational / Commercial?

    Reply

  4. Hi, just wanted to make sure before I bring my Drone. I do have a DJI mini 2 senwhich is just 249g and no need for any registrations and license as what I understood above. But to be clear, upon arrival at Singapore, do I still need to do anything? Like do I need or am I required to declaire my drone even if I it’s on my hand carry luggage?

    Reply

  5. Hi, is drone (middle – large scale type) with camera attached operates (by town council – so they say) and records everything thing on every floors and every units by flying outside viewing through the windows? Is that even allow? Isn’t that a violation to a person’s privacy? Even it’s by town council, shouldn’t there be notice to notify the residents? Even calling police telling them about it, and when they learn it’s town council, they says they can’t do anything… Does that mean that any drones operating by any government groups are allow to use the attached camera to view everyone on every floor as and when they wants??

    Reply

    • Johnny, we recommend you collect evidence of these events including video if possible. The circumstances sound unusual, and perhaps infringing on privacy rules. We recommend you contact law enforcement and the regulator. You should get legal advice also.

      Reply

  7. Hi,

    I am a SG PR and is coming back to SG soon, a second hand drone will be come with me and it is less than 250g, may I know :

    – does purchase receipt be needed ?
    – do I need to declare when I arrive SG ? If so, how and when to do it ?
    – do I need a license / permit to operate my drone in SG ? If so, how and where to apply ?
    – does my drone need a license / permit ? If so, where and when to apply ?
    – how can I know the restriction area in SG for operating my drone ?
    – as I am a beginner, can I practice at void deck area of HDB ?

    Thanks

    Reply

    • Issac, most of your questions are answered above. You will need to declare the drone to a customs official upon arrival with the drone into Singapore.

      Reply

  8. I would like to fly from Thailand to Singapore with my drone FIMI X8 MINI (250g). I’m not going to use the drone in Singapore.

    What are my obligations? No registration since its not more than 250g. Do I have to do anything in this case?

    Reply

    • If you will not be using the drone in Singapore, you should declare it at customs and mention that. They may allow you to keep it, or hold it at the airport for you to get when you are departing

      Reply

      • Now I can share my experience since I arrived in Singapore some days ago.

        I went directly to customs and told them about my drone. They scanned my backpack, opened it and wanted to see the drone. They asked questions like how far the drone can fly (I couldn’t answer because I did not know off the top of my head).

        I told them that it is a very small drone (<250g) and I'm not planing to use the drone. I think the honesty helped and they let me keep it.

        Bringing it to Thailand was no matter at all and all airports/airlines (Emirates, Thai Airways, Airasia and Scoot) were fine with a drone and separated lithium batteries.

        Reply

  10. I want to use my mini 2 in Singapore next month. Does somebody has experience if the Dji geo zone is reliable about areas where you can fly and not? I find the One Map app a bit confusing. According my research flying next to marina Beach should be possible if you stay below 60 meter, can somebody confirm this?

    Reply

  11. Hello

    I come with my drone(800 gr) in Singapour but don’t intend to use it.Do I have to register online before I landed or I just need to declare at the immigration when I’ll arrive ??

    Reply

  12. Hello,
    I have a trip to singapore next month. I plan to bring my drone with me.
    I don’t know how to declare it to get through customs smoothly. If I don’t declare it, will my drone be detained?
    Thanks!

    Reply

    • When you arrive in Singapore, you will go through immigration and customs. There you will have the option to declare your drone. You should check with the import/customs departments for the rules on declarations.

      Reply

      • So after I arrived Singapore, may be I need to declare my drone to customs prior exiting if the customs request, right? How can I check with import/customs department for the rule on declarations? I don’t have any information. I am afraid my drone will be take by singapore customs.
        My drone is DJI MINI SE (249G) and I no need to register, right? Do Singapore allow foreigner like me fly it?

        Reply

        • You declare when you arrive. We have not heard of any issues with your drone. If the drone is not allowed, they will keep it and return it to you on departure.
          Foreigners are allowed to fly in unrestricted areas following the instructions above.

          Reply

  13. Very ambiguous info on small drones less than 250g other than no registration required. Then all the requirements are tagged with drones heavier than 250g.

    Simply said: where can one fly small drones less than 250g for recreational purposes? Or which (what categories) areas in OneMap are not allowed to fly drones of less than 250g?

    Reply

  17. Hi,
    I have a business purpose for project monitoring (using the drone), what should I do for entering Singapore and use the drone for business purposes?
    1. drone registration
    2. permit

    Reply

    • You should follow the commercial activity requirements on this page. You will also need to contact the regulator for specific instructions on your project approval.

      Reply

  18. is it ok to unlock my DJI in the restricted zones just to get some photographs of my team playing in CCA. the drone will be hovering at less than 10m from the ground.

    Reply

  19. After I read the section “pilots must always maintain visual contact with their drones”, I wonder if FPV drone (or a normal drone with goggles) considered have visual contact all the time…

    Reply

    • Visual contact refers to being able to see the drone from your position, it does not refer to the control method. There may be specific restrictions on FPV operation. Please check with the regulator.

      Reply

  20. Hi, just to check if my compound is out of the no fly zone, can I fly my drone up to 50m building ?
    It is phantom 4, weighs 1380g.
    Are there any permit or requirements I need to comply?

    Reply

    • Your drone must be registered.
      Your building must be outside the no-fly zone.
      You can fly a maximum of 400 feet above land.

      Reply

  21. Hi

    Thanks for your good advice here. I have a question about drones less than 250g.

    Can they be used around Clarke Quay at a height of less than 5m? I am looking to do aerial shots of some of the statues in the area? It would not be above people etc but I am guessing that because the area is so close to Parliament house that it would be restricted space but does this apply to sub 250g drones?

    Thanks

    Reply

    • Ben our understanding is that restricted airspace do not exempt the nano drones from the restriction. We always recommend contacting the regulators for definitive answers.

      Reply

  22. It is not drone specific the regulation is referring to. It is for ALL UA (Unmanned Aerial) vehicles that are remotely operated. A home made paper airplane if it weighs more 250g need to be registered and paid for. However, you are not required to go for a one-time operator course (payable) if that paper airplane weighs less than 1,500g. The airspace restriction and airport proximity apply to your paper airplane during operation.

    Reply

  23. “The altitude of the small unmanned aircraft cannot be higher than 400 feet (120 meters) above ground level unless the small unmanned aircraft is (1) flown within a 400-foot radius of a structure, and (2) does not fly higher than 400 feet above the structure’s immediate uppermost limit.”
    Most of us early birds followed this FAA guideline until local laws stipulated a height limit of 60 meters (200 feet). This means if we fly at West Coast Park we risk having our drones being snared by kite lines since the legal height limit for kites in Singapore is – you guessed it – 60 meters. Now that some minister has graciously initiated a “dedicated drone park”, perhaps some enlightened civil servant will allow us to fly higher? Please?

    Reply

    • Robert, your link was about the USA regulations. In Singapore, the standard maximum altitude is 200ft or 60 meters as indicated above.

      Reply

  24. Hi, I note that you suggest that we check with CAAS regarding some queries – implying you are not final authority on such questions – who in CAAS should we write to? Thank you.

    Reply

    • Stephen, we are not the regulator, we are a team of volunteers that are trying to make it easier for drone operators to understand the regulations and contact the regulators. We always recommend getting in touch with the regulators for the latest information and definitive advice.

      If you follow the link at the top of the page to the regulator’s website, you will find their latest contact information. Best wishes

      Reply

  25. Thanks for your informative article.
    I note that you mention that ” Drones are permitted to be flown only during daylight hours. ” This is my understanding too, however I can’t seem to find any reference to this rule in CAAS’ Rules.
    Could you enlighten me, please?
    Many thanks

    Reply

    • Updated: You may fly your unmanned aircraft (UA) at night if you are able to maintain visual line of sight with your UA at all times. You will need to ensure that there is enhanced lighting on your UA for greater visibility when flying at night.

      Reply

  26. I want to bring in m drone from another country, drone weight more than 250g, I already bought the CAAS sticker but unable to register it, can I bring in the drone to Singapore?
    I have no plans to fly it in Singapore, just going to bring it to other country to fly.

    Reply

    • You should declare the drone on entry. They may allow you to take the drone, or offer to keep the drone at the port of entry for you to pick up on your way to the final destination.

      Reply

  27. Do I have to obtain an UA Pilot license for 450 gr drone if I’m not going to fly in restricted areas, and on height higher than 60m?

    Reply

  28. Hi, do I follow the one map app as the park I going to fly say it out of no fly zone. But on npark website, it say can’t fly. Can I trust the app? I am confused and don’t wish to involve any trouble.

    Thanks

    Reply

    • Parks have their own regulations that may not be reflected in online maps. Follow the park regulations.

      Reply

    • Dan, typically the drone regulations apply to outdoor drone use in public settings, and indoor use is generally left to property owners. In our opinion, in this case, flying your drone in your own home would probably be ok. For a legal opinion, you should probably contact your local law enforcement or an attorney.

      Reply

  31. Are there any regulations stating that it is required to equip drones above 250g with a GPS tracker issued by CAAS?

    Reply

    • We are not aware of any such regulation. Drone regulators have been debating this and it has been implemented in some areas, but we don’t see anything from CAAS yet. Please let us know if you have found any recent regulations.

      Reply

  34. Can i take my drone to Singapore without registering the drone. It is above 250 gram but i am not going to use it. I am going to Thailand and stay for 4 days in Singapore. Just want to make sure they do not take it at the airport because of the lack of registration.

    Reply

    • Declare it when you arrive and they will either keep it at the airport or let you keep it with specific instructions.

      Reply

  36. I have a plan to go to Singapore for view days for holiday and I plan to bring my drones Aerial drone and FPV drone they both less than 249 grams. What should I do coz I do not want to break any regulation.

    Reply

    • Drones under 250g don’t have to be registered. Follow the rules laid out above, and visit the regulator site linked above for more details.

      Reply

    • Download and Refer to OneMap app for fly zone. Refer to NParks website for park that flying zone is allowed.

      To my best knowledge.

      FPV if u are wearing the FPV goggles is a pretty grey area since at any one time u need to have VLOS ( or up to 400m) so generally u need a person with u to ensure VLOS while flying.

      Btw for class 1 activity permit, total weight exceeds 7kg u need the permit for education and not less than 7kg.

      Reply

  37. I have a drone less than 249g. Can fly within in a enclosed multipurpose hall Or any area that has shelter within the area.

    Reply

    • In enclosed areas, you should get permission from the owner/manager of that facility. You are not required to register drones under 250g.

      Reply

  38. Hi, if I’m flying a drone below 200ft and ≤250g on private property in Singapore (assuming the private property isn’t in a restricted airspace), do I still need a permit?

    Reply

  39. I bought new drone weight about 235 grams so register is not required. I already bought UA registration label at SiingPost.. can I keep for future drone if weight more than 250 grams. Thanks

    Reply

  40. Drones are not permitted to be flown within a 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) radius of an airport.
    Does this applies to drones weighing less than 250grams.

    Thanks

    Reply

  41. What is the seller obligation during the sale of the drone? Does Seller requires to remind or request buyer to acknowledge the compliant of local laws as part of the sale process?

    Reply

    • Melvin
      There are no specific rules in Singapore requiring sellers to inform buyers of drone regulation compliance. There may be warnings included in the package provided by most manufacturers, but those are not specific to any location.
      In general, the regulators expect the buyers to be familiar with and compliant with the local drone regulations.

      Reply

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