Are You Breaking Singapore Drone Laws Without Knowing?

Every weekend, drones zip through Singapore's skies. Some drone operators know what they're doing, but many—possibly including you—might not realise you're breaking the law. Drone laws are not simple, and you may not realise that you need permits and licenses, as well as that some areas are entirely prohibited. 

What Are the Latest Drone Laws in Singapore 2025?

Drones are increasingly becoming regulated in Singapore. The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) controls all drone activities, whether you are flying as a hobby or as a business. The significant change for 2025? Since December 1st, all unmanned aircraft with a mass exceeding 250 grams require Broadcast Remote Identification (B-RID). It is a sort of digital licence plate that transmits the location, serial number and operator of your drone.

Drone legislation in Singapore is quite equal opportunity. Whether you're a Singaporean, PR, or foreign visitor, the rules apply to you the same way. No matter whether you are a recreational drone pilot, a commercial drone operator or a professional, there is no exception. It does not matter what your nationality is.

This is what you need to know about drone laws in Singapore. Any drone over 250 grammes is supposed to be registered with CAAS. Registration label charges $25, and you will affix this registration number somewhere it is visible on your drone. You can click here to see where you can buy the registration label. 

Registration, Permits, and Operator Requirements

Before operating a drone in Singapore, it is essential to understand the key distinction between registration and permits. Registration is easy; just purchase a label and affix it. Permits vary significantly and are based on the specific activities being performed.

The good news is that you do not require an activity permit provided that your drone is under 7 kilogrammes in weight, you do not fly above 60 metres above mean sea level, you are not in restricted areas, and you maintain the drone in your visual line of sight. However, this is where many often go wrong—you might think you can fly anywhere within these limitations, but you can't. There are restricted no-fly zones around the airports, military installations, Parliament House and the Istana. There are places that drones cannot fly.

The use of a drone with a mass exceeding 1.5 kilogrammes in cases of public events carrying over 50 individuals requires a UA Basic Training Certificate. UAVs of more than 7 kilogrammes demand a full UA Pilot Licence (UAPL). Conducting commercial drone operations involves a combo of an Operator Permit and a Class 1 Activity Permit. You might think all you need to do is register a commercial drone and fly it, but that’s incorrect. CAAS will have to certify and approve commercial drone flying separately.

Your flying area is critical. Recreational flying is at 60 metres or less. Anything above must have permission. You should also remember to keep your drone in your line of sight at all times, without using FPV goggles, and avoid letting the drone fly out of view.

How Much Is the Fine for Illegal Drone Flying in Singapore?

The fines imposed for violating drone laws in Singapore are incredibly high. Flying an unregistered drone, operating without a permit, or flying in restricted areas can attract penalties of up to $50,000. In severe cases, you may face up to 2 years in prison, a fine, or both. This is taken seriously by the courts.

You could easily face the same consequences—for example, one tourist was fined $12,000 for flying near Marina Bay. Another drone operator, like you, received a $51,000 penalty for flying into an Air Force runway's flight path and forcing aircraft diversions. These aren't one-off cases. CAAS handled 309 cases of unlawful drone use in 2023 alone. People lost their registered drones, paid substantial fines, or both.

Penalties go even higher in case your drone interferes with aviation activity, transports hazardous cargo or intrudes on people. Flying drones at major events, such as the National Day Parade, without permission is even more severe.

Do Singapore Drone Laws Apply to Foreigners?

Yes, they do. Completely. The laws governing drones in Singapore apply to all individuals who operate drones in Singapore, regardless of their citizenship. Visiting foreigners are allowed to fly drones, but they must be registered and comply with all rules set by CAAS. The only difference is that foreign visitors can only get one registration label instead of five.

They still need the same permits, training certificates, and operator licences as residents. You could learn this the hard way, too—just like a recent tourist who was fined. If you fly a DJI Mini or similar drone without proper permits, you’ll receive the same fines. Claiming you didn't know local laws provides zero legal protection.

If you're bringing your drone to Singapore, familiarise yourself with the CAAS regulations before you arrive. For you, the consequences simply aren’t worth the risk.

How We Can Help You Fly Legally

At WetheFlyers, we completely understand how overwhelming Singapore's drone regulations feel. That's why our entire operation centres on proper compliance and licensed flying. Our CAAS-certified pilot drones manage all the intricate requirements, permissions, and aviation safety regulations. Whether you require professional aerial drone photography for your real estate, commercial drone videography for your company, or high-quality 8K drone photography, we take care of all aspects-permits, drone flight planning, drone safety, drone editing, and drone delivery.

We also offer in-depth aerial drone services, including drone inspections and aerial surveys. All the projects adhere to the CAAS. You can avoid paying fines, penalties, and legal headaches by working with licensed professionals. We have invested in appropriate qualifications and ensure that all Singapore regulations regarding drones are adhered to.

Stay Compliant, Stay Safe

Knowledge of Singapore drone laws is not optional; it is a necessity. Regulations do not change regardless of whether you are flying on leisure or business. Register and obtain necessary permits, observe height restrictions, and be out of restricted areas. The fine of $50,000 is indeed not worth cutting corners.