🖐 In this blog post we’ll share all law links and known rules about recreational and commercial drone use in Uganda (Kampala & Entebbe). Give a 👍 at the end of this post if you enjoyed it & feel free to ask any questions or share your experience in Uganda Drone Forum. Keep in mind that the content below is updated to the best of our ability & does not replace official sources & your own research.
Uganda's drone laws and regulations
Uganda does not seem to differentiate much commercial & recreational drone use for the moment. However, both are subject to restrictions in the country.
✅ In Uganda, drone laws falls under the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) & they can be contacted anytime via:
Email: aviation@caa.co.ug
Phone: (+256) (312) 352 000
Mail: Airport Road- Entebbe, P.O Box 5536 kampala
💡 Note that local drone rules are currently been thought through in Uganda & a new regulation should have come up by the end of 2018. As we're writing this post, we couldn't find it published yet but will update it asap. If you know anything, please share in the Uganda Drone Forum.
Can I bring or travel with a drone to Uganda?
✅ Currently, there doesn't seem to be any restrictions on bringing drones within Uganda or at Entebbe Airport as long as your import is considered as legitimate (generally one drone per person).
🚨 Be aware of the airline you purchase to travel as some main ones will only accept your drone on-board if its batteries are detached & placed in a firecase during travel time. Most airlines will have a battery voltage limit based on the recommendation of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). You can find more info about a specific airline here.
Can I fly a drone in Uganda?
✅ We did not find an official fly zone map for drones in Uganda "If you have more information about this, please share it in the Uganda Drone Forum". Thankfully in the meantime, app.airmap.io has listed all flight zones in a convenient way.
Uganda drone fly map
🚨 You should not fly above or near military installations & strategic infrastructure. Fly away from airports & any aerodromes or airports in the country. Do not fly over anyone and/or congested areas.
🦅 National parks & reserves might be on a case by case permission & you might need to check directly with the local park or reserve authorities.
💡 Spare drone batteries are a must when travelling overseas, they give you more autonomy to fly and take pictures during your trips.
What are the rules to fly a drone in Uganda
✅ There isn't much regulation on the official CAA site. Drones to fly in Uganda have to be registered prior take off. Additionally, when flying a drone in Uganda, you must fly:
always within sight
only during permitting weather
away from airports, aerodromes & give way to any airplane you see/hear.
away from areas where its use could interfere with police or first responders.
avoiding sensitive areas including government or military facilities.
🚨 Note that the Civil Aviation Authority of Uganda is currently working on a full regulation for drones which should have arrived end of 2018 but is still in the making process. As we write this post, it is not available yet but we will update asap. If you see it before us, please share the link & your experience in the Uganda Drone Forum for a faster update 👌
🚁 If you are considering getting your first drone or upgrade, feel free to check the Drone Gear content we've put together or click on the model you like below to get its full specs. Any purchase done from one of our affiliate links helps Dronemade stay free and available to all.
How to register my drone in Uganda?
🚨 According to online feedback & experiences, you should send an application letter to the Commander of Defence Forces, CAA & the Uganda Revenue Authority (all 3). 🌏 Foreigners can apply only if working for media agencies & can find help from the Uganda Media Council. To complete your application, you will need:
your full personal details
the full tech info about your drone
a full description of your flight intentions including geo coordinates, times & intent.
inform of any co-operation with another regulated body of Uganda (it will help your application to go faster).
a copy of your ID
a copy of your drone operator license (if you hold one)
What do I risk for flying a drone illegally in Uganda?
The amount & scope of the fine will depend on the nature & severity of your infraction. The judges will also evaluate if you intentionally committed the infraction and/or if you had any commercial purposes to do such.
Once you've got everything in order, you can start flying above Uganda's awesome landscapes and create videos like this one:
✅ Please leave a comment or update the Uganda Drone Forum when you receive news and/or gain experience with your drone in the Uganda! Have fun and safe flight!
Disclaimer: Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information researched, we take no responsibility for any loss, harm or damage caused as a direct or indirect consequence of relying on this information. It is your responsibility to seek advice from qualified local & relevant authorities for needed information about local drone regulations.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links meaning we will get a commission if you decide to purchase via them. This has no costs for you but helps Dronemade stay free for all. If you need to buy anything on Banggood or DJI stores, think of us.
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