🚁 Drone Photography Rules in India: 10 Must-Know Laws for 2025
Drone photography can elevate your travel content — capturing aerial views of temples, beaches, hills, and bustling cities. But in India, drone use is regulated by DGCA and flying without proper permissions can lead to fines or even legal action.
Here’s your complete guide to the drone photography rules in India in 2025, especially if you’re a travel vlogger or photographer documenting for tourism.
📋 10 Important Drone Photography Rules in India (2025)
1. All Drones Must Be Registered
You must register your drone on the Digital Sky Platform by DGCA and get a Unique Identification Number (UIN).
Visit: https://digitalsky.dgca.gov.in
2. Drone Pilot Requires a License
If your drone is above 250 grams, you need a Remote Pilot License (RPL). Nano drones (<250g) for personal use are exempted but can’t be flown in no-fly zones.
3. Only Fly in Approved Zones
Always check airspace maps via the Digital Sky app. Avoid flying in:
-
Airport areas (within 5km)
-
Military zones
-
State borders
-
Wildlife sanctuaries
Read: Nature Photography Spots in North East
Read: DreamSafar Drone Shoots
4. Maximum Altitude Limit: 120 Meters
Drones must not be flown higher than 400 feet (120 meters) from the ground.
5. Night Flying Is Prohibited
Unless you have special permission, drones cannot be flown between sunset and sunrise.
6. Maintain Visual Line of Sight (VLOS)
You must be able to see your drone at all times while flying.
7. No Flying Over Crowds or Vehicles
Flying over roads, people, or sensitive areas like government buildings or religious places is restricted unless approved.
8. Insurance Is Recommended
While not mandatory, drone insurance is advisable for accidental damage or third-party liability — especially during tourism shoots.
9. Commercial Shoots Need Permissions
For travel vlogging, films, or promotional shoots, you must apply for:
-
Operator Permit
-
Air Traffic Control (ATC) Clearance
10. Respect Privacy & Ethical Guidelines
Do not record people, private property, or sensitive locations without consent. Offenders may face legal consequences under IPC Section 66E and Privacy Laws.
📸 Pro Tip for Travel Creators
Always carry a soft drone bag, extra propellers, and the DGCA license printout while traveling. For example, Gangasagar, Sikkim, and Ladakh require written permits from local authorities.
❓FAQ – Drone Photography Rules in India
Q1. Can tourists bring drones to India?
Yes, but they must declare drones at customs and follow DGCA rules. Foreigners need special permissions.
Q2. Do I need permission to fly drones in rural India?
Yes. All zones must be verified via Digital Sky. Village areas may fall under restricted airspace too.
Q3. Is drone photography allowed at Gangasagar or Sundarbans?
Only with prior permission. Contact authorities or use certified services like DreamSafar.com for aerial shoots.
Q4. Can I use my drone for YouTube travel vlogs?
Yes — with RPL, UIN, and flying in legal zones. Commercial use needs additional permits.
Q5. What happens if I fly without permission?
You may be fined up to ₹1 lakh or face legal action under civil aviation and IT laws.
🏷️ Tags
Drone Photography India, Drone Rules 2025, Travel Vlogging in India, DGCA Drone Permit, TheIndiaTourism.in, Travel Content Creation
