Can you fly a drone to film or photograph in South Africa?

Private flying (no commercial gain) must stay at least 50 m from people, public roads and property without the owner's permission, 10 km from aerodromes, and no higher than 150 ft unless the SACAA approves. Any other use needs the drone registered with the SACAA, an SACAA Letter of Authority and an operating certificate (UASOC); pilots train at an SACAA-approved training organisation for their licence.

Sources: SACAA: unmanned aircraft systems · Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr: drone operations in South Africa

Checked against the official source on October 6, 2026.