Flying Of Drones in South Africa
Nozipho Mvulane
In South Africa, the flying of drones is regulated by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) under the Civil Aviation Regulations. These regulations are in place to ensure the safe and responsible operation of drones in the country.
Key Points of the Civil Aviation Regulations
Here are some key points regarding the drone regulations in South Africa:
Registration
All drones weighing more than 250 grams must be registered with the SACAA. The registration process involves providing certain information about the drone and its operator.
Operating Rules
Drone operators in South Africa must adhere to specific operating rules to ensure safety. Some of the common rules include:
Visual Line of Sight (VLOS)
Drones must be operated within the visual line of sight of the operator at all times, unless a specific exemption has been granted by the SACAA.
Restricted Areas
Drones are not allowed to fly in restricted areas such as national parks, military installations, or areas close to airports, unless prior authorization has been obtained.
Altitude and Distance
Drones should not be flown higher than 120 meters above ground level, and they should maintain a safe distance from people, vehicles, and structures.
No-fly Zones
There are certain areas where drone flights are prohibited for safety and security reasons. These areas may include government buildings, private property, or events.
Privacy and Consent
Drone operators should respect the privacy of individuals and obtain consent when capturing images or videos of people.
Pilot Requirements
Depending on the weight category of the drone, different pilot requirements may apply. For drones weighing less than 7 kg, operators need to hold a Remote Pilot License (RPL) or operate under the direct supervision of an RPL holder. For drones weighing more than 7 kg, a Remote Operating Certificate (ROC) is required.
Special Categories and Operations
Some specialized categories of drone operations, such as night flights, operations in controlled airspace, or commercial operations, may have additional requirements and restrictions. Operators engaging in these types of operations may need to obtain specific permissions or certifications from the SACAA.
It’s important to emphasize that these are general guidelines, and there may be specific requirements or exemptions depending on the circumstances. It is crucial to consult the SACAA or relevant authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding drone regulations in South Africa.
For further information of any of your legal needs, please contact Rajaram Mvulane Attorneys at info@rajarammvulane.co.za or on 073 2777 973.
Article Disclaimer
This article is not intended to provide legal advice. This article is a general information sheet and should not be used or relied on as legal or other professional advice. This article is based on research regarding laws and may be subject to change. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your legal adviser for specific and detailed advice. Errors and omissions excepted (E&OE).
