Drone Regulations in Delhi: Your Quick Guide to Flying Legally
If you’re thinking about taking your drone out for a spin over Delhi, you need to know the rules first. Riding the skies without permission can land you a fine, a seizure, or even a court case. The good news is the regulations are clear and easy to follow once you break them down.
Key Rules for Flying a Drone in Delhi
First off, every drone weighing more than 250 grams must be registered with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Registration is done online, you upload your drone’s make, model and proof of purchase, then you get a unique ID that you must display on the aircraft.
Next, watch the no‑fly zones. In Delhi, the entire area within a 5 km radius of Indira Gandhi International Airport is off‑limits unless you have a special permit. Same goes for the Parliament House, Rashtrapati Bhavan, and any military bases. The DGCA provides an app that highlights these zones in real time – use it before you launch.
Altitude is another big one. You can only fly up to 120 meters (400 feet) above ground level. If you need higher altitude for a professional shoot, you must apply for a ‘Specific Permission’ and wait for approval, which can take a few days.
Flying over crowds is prohibited unless you have a ‘visual line of sight’ (VLOS) and an event permit. That means no party, protest, or public gathering unless the organizer has cleared it with the authorities and you have a written clearance.
How to Get Your Drone Approved Quickly
Start by registering your drone as soon as you buy it. The online portal asks for a copy of your ID, the drone’s technical sheet, and a small fee (around INR 2,000). After you get the registration number, stick the sticker on the body of the drone – it’s a legal requirement.
If you need to fly in a restricted area, apply for a ‘Specific Permission’ through the DGCA’s Drone Operations Management System (DOMS). Fill out the form, attach a flight plan, and give a brief reason why you need that area. The faster you submit a clear, concise plan, the quicker the approval.
Always do a pre‑flight check: battery health, GPS lock, and firmware version. Carry a printed copy of your registration and permission letter while flying – the police can ask for it on the spot.
Penalties are steep for non‑compliance. Flying without registration can result in a fine of up to INR 1 lakh or imprisonment for up to a year. Ignoring no‑fly zones can add another INR 2 lakh to the bill. So it’s cheaper and smarter to follow the steps.
In short, register your drone, respect the no‑fly zones, stay below 120 meters, and get the right permissions if you need to break any of those rules. Follow these basics and you’ll enjoy the Delhi skyline without any legal hassle.