What Are the Key Singapore Drone Law Rules You Must Follow?

Flying a drone in Singapore is thrilling until you realise the Civil Aviation Authority is no laughing matter when it comes to illegal cases. Regardless of whether you simply want jaw-dropping aerial shots or aim to make a living in this field, understanding the drone laws in Singapore is not an option. Mess this up, and not only will you incur fines of up to S$50,000, but you may also face imprisonment.

What Permits Are Required for Drone Flying in Singapore?

Registration: Your First Step

Any drone weighing more than 250 grams requires registration with CAAS. Grab a S$25 registration label and complete the online form on the CAAS UA Portal. You must be at least 16 years old, and that label should remain permanently attached to your drone.

Failure to register will result in a fine of S$10,000 or a period of half a year. As of February 2025, CAAS has lifted the registration limit; thus, you can register an unlimited number of drones.

Operator Permit: When You Fly Commercially

Flying for money? You need an Operator Permit. This covers aerial photography for weddings, real estate videography, inspections, or any other business-related drone use. The permit proves to CAAS that you are knowledgeable about the process.

Getting one means passing a theory test and a practical assessment through a CAAS-approved training organisation. It's challenging, but it demonstrates you're serious about safe operations.

Activity Permit: Permission for Each Operation

You need a Class 1 or Class 2 Activity Permit for each specific flight. Class 1 includes commercial work, while Class 2 encompasses recreational flying or events involving more than 50 individuals. It's your permission slip to that specific place at that particular time.

UA Basic Training: For Recreational Flyers

Flying a drone between 1.5 kg and 7 kg recreationally? Complete UA Basic Training and earn your certificate. It is a single programme that encompasses the basic safety content. If your drone weighs more than 7 kg or you are a commercial pilot, you will need the full UA Pilot Licence.

What Is the Minimum Age to Fly a Drone in Singapore?

The Age Requirement

One must be 16 years old to register a drone or a licence in Singapore. This is whether you are flying for leisure or as a business flyer.

Younger Pilots Need Adult Supervision

Children under 16 can fly drones, but only under supervision by a qualified adult. That adult becomes responsible for the entire flight. This works well for schools or families introducing children to drones properly.

Training Programmes for Young Enthusiasts

CAAS-approved training organisations offer courses for younger drone lovers. These courses provide an introduction to the basics as well as a focus on safety. By the time they are 16 years old, participants will be able to register their own drones.

What Are the Penalties for Violating Drone Laws in Singapore?

The Consequences

Singapore is serious when it comes to drone violations. You are fined not more than S$50,000, or imprisoned for not more than two years or both. The level of punishment varies with the type and nature of the violation.

Unregistered flying is S$10,000 or six months in prison. Unauthorised flying within the controlled airspace is the most severe punishment of S$50,000 and two years imprisonment. Such fines are in place because drone accidents pose a real threat to air traffic safety.

No-Fly Zones: Completely Restricted

Certain areas are off-limits. One is not allowed to fly within 5 kilometres of Changi Airport, near military installations, or around government buildings, such as the Istana. The CBD, Marina Barrage, nature reserves and others that are under protection should have special permits. Offences receive the most severe penalties.

Height Restrictions

The standard limit is 200 feet above ground level. Flying higher without permission breaks the law. Licenced commercial operators will be permitted to fly up to 400 feet within certain regions as of February 2025, whilst recreational pilots must not exceed 200 feet.  CAAS reviews flight logs to detect violations.

Key Rules Every Drone Flyer Should Know

Designated Flying Areas

Singapore has designated Unmanned Aircraft Flying Areas (UAFAs) where you can operate legally. Pandan Reservoir and Dover Road are examples. Use OneMap to check whether your intended location is in a no-fly zone. It's free and straightforward.

Remote ID Requirements

Starting in December 2025, drones with weights larger than 250 grammes must have a Broadcast Remote Identification module. It automatically transmits your drone's details. Some exemptions apply for indoor flights and permit holders using Reach.gov.sg.

Daylight Operations Only

All flights must occur during daylight hours. No night flying unless CAAS specifically approves it. Maintain visual contact with your drone throughout every flight—you cannot rely on camera feed alone.

Getting Professional Help

Unsure about the rules? WeTheFlyers handles permit applications, flight planning, and professional aerial services with full regulatory compliance. We ensure that every flight complies with Singapore drone law.

About WeTheFlyers: Your Trusted Singapore Drone Partner

WeTheFlyers is a team of licensed drone operators based in Singapore. We have CAAS-qualified pilots who are familiar with the regulatory environment in Singapore. We do it all, and whether you require assistance in permits, flight planning or professional aerial work. We stand by you in each and every step of the procedure.