Drone regulations in Singapore

Last update on 15.11.2023 | 7 Kommentare

In this post you will find the current laws for the use of drones in Singapore.

Since January 2020, all drones over 250 grams must be registered in Singapore. If you are caught flying an unregistered drone, you could face severe penalties.

Recreational pilots whose drone weighs between 1.5 and 7 kilograms are required to have “basic training” or a UA pilot’s license. If you are unsure whether you need to register your drone or require additional documents, you can visit this link and use the questions at the bottom of the page to classify yourself in the correct category.

Registration in two steps

Only people aged 16 and over can register drones. Registration consists of two steps: First you have to order a registration label and attach it visibly on the outside of a non-removable part of the drone (not on the battery, propellers). After that, you can register online.

There are some peculiarities for foreign drone pilots. You can theoretically order the label online, but it can not yet be sent to foreign addresses. If you do not have an address in Singapore, you can alternatively purchase the label locally at a selected SingPost branch. You can find a list of the branches here. You should take the completed application form (docx file), your passport and a copy of the passport with you.

The cost is $15 per label. Anyone who is not a citizen or permanent resident of Singapore may only order one label or will have to submit an application for more.

As a tourist, you have to create a UAPass Account in the online portal to register, as you probably do not have a SingPass or a CorpPass. It can take three to five working days for this account to be activated. It is therefore advisable to open the account before you travel to Singapore.

Overview: Drone rules in Singapore

Additional rules for drone pilots in Singapore

In Singapore, drones may only be operated within line of sight.

You are also prohibited from flying within 5 kilometers of an airport. There are other restricted zones that you can see on the OneMap app.

In general, you should not fly over bystanders, crowds, public events, or near troads or emergency response operations.

We also recommend that you only fly with a valid liability insurance in Singapore.

Rules for commercial pilots

Commercial pilots must obtain an Operator Permit and activity permits (valid for the planned maneuvers) from the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS). The activity permits are divided into two classes:

• Class 1: Use of a drone for commercial purposes, for private purposes if drone weighs more than 25 kg, for teaching purposes from 7 kg.
• Class 2: Use of a drone for private or educational purposes (less than 7 kilograms) above the height limit or near airports or other prohibited areas.

Commercial pilots must therefore apply for an activity permit class 1.

You will need to budget at least 650 SGD for the operator permit and the permits. The operator permit is valid for up to one year. Registration can be done online here. Allow about two weeks processing time.

We have researched the listed drone regulations for Singapore to the best of our knowledge. We can not guarantee the correctness of the information. If you want to be on the safe side, please contact the competent aviation authority. Alternatively, you can also ask the embassy in your country for further information about the regulations. Please leave us a comment when you receive news and/or gain experience with your copter in Singapore!