Drone Laws in Bolivia

Verfasst von Francis Markert | Last update on 24.03.2026 | 0 Kommentare

In this article, I would like to shed light on the legal situation for the use of drones in Bolivia.

Since 2020, Bolivia has had a law regulating drone flights. According to this, all drones weighing 200 grams or more must be registered.

Overview: Drone rules in Bolivia

Additional rules for drone pilots in Bolivia

According to the law (Article 164), all aerial photography in Bolivia must be approved by the Servicio Nacional de Aerofotogrametría (SNA). We have not yet heard how this is handled in practice.

Bolivia distinguishes between drone flights for purely recreational use and “aerial work” (trabajos aéreos). The definition does not focus on the commercial aspect, but rather on the purpose. Photography is explicitly included, which suggests that private users with camera drones could fall under the category of aerial work. This would mean that every flight must be registered with the civil aviation authority (DGAC). For drones up to 6 kilograms and in compliance with the following rules, it is sufficient to submit the completed online form at least 12 hours in advance. Drones over 10 kg must be registered in person with the DGAC (not only online).

In general, no one may be endangered during drone operations. Flights without permission over crowds such as events, festivals, sports events, or demonstrations are prohibited. All incidents or accidents must be reported to the DGAC within 72 hours. There is an official reporting form.

A distance of 50 meters should be maintained from densely populated areas, places with many pedestrians, structures, and residential buildings.

A safety distance of 6 kilometers must be maintained from airports, and 2 kilometers from helipads.

Drones should not fly closer than 9 kilometers to forest fires.

Flights are also prohibited near military and police bases, prisons, over hydrocarbon facilities (oil/gas production sites), pumping stations and gas stations, the government palace and the residence of the president, as well as the locations of the president and vice president.

Flights are only allowed between sunrise and sunset and in good visibility and weather conditions, meaning no fog, rain, snow, or ice should affect the flight. The drone must always remain within visual line of sight. Night flights are only permitted with special authorization from the DGAC. For this, your drone must be equipped with anti-collision lights (not just standard factory lights!).

Drones may not be operated from moving vehicles. Pilots may only operate one drone at a time. The maximum speed is 70 km/h.

Flight maneuvers must not be carried out under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances. If minors operate a drone, they must be supervised by an adult aged 18 or older.

Autonomous flight functions are permitted, but as a drone pilot you must be able to intervene and take manual control at any time.

The drone regulations for Bolivia listed here have been researched to the best of our knowledge. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information. If you want to be on the safe side, contact the responsible aviation authority. Alternatively, you can also contact the embassy of Bolivia in your home country for further information on the regulations. Please leave us a comment if you have updates and/or personal experience flying your drone in Bolivia!