Drone Laws in Hong Kong

Updated August 2018

What are the laws regarding Drones / UAV / Quadcopters in Hong Kong?

Drones / UAV / Quadcopters weighing more than 7 kgs require special permission from the Civil Aviation Department.
Drones / UAV / Quadcopters weighing less than 7 kgs do not require any special permission.

Prohibited areas of operation

Over populated and congested areas.
Over, or close to, any object, installation or facility that would present a risk to safety in the event of damage due to any impact by the model aircraft, or in such a manner that the good order and discipline and control thereof may be or may likely be jeopardized.
In the vicinity of an airport and aircraft approach and take-off paths. These areas include:
1. Hong Kong International Airport;
2. North Lantau coastal area;
3. coastal areas from Tai Lam Chung to Tsuen Wan and Tsing Yi Island;
4. Victoria Harbour and its coastal areas; and
5. Shek Kong area.

Altitude of Operation

Feet

or 91.4 metres

Time of Operation

Only during day time.

Source: Civil Aviation Department

From My Personal Experience

Aerial view of Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of the more chilled out cities in the world when it comes to drone laws and regulations. It was once called the wild frontier for drones.

Drones are a fairly common sight in Hong Kong, especially over the weekends when enthusiasts and hobbyists set out to open spaces to fly. The popular flying spots often get crowded on a sunny, clear day.

Although, the laws prohibit drones over the city, they’re a common sight especially around Central. I’ve often seen them fly around the peak, or next to the IFC. Personally, I’ve only been stopped once from flying my drone in Hong Kong, when I tried to fly it near the Kowloon Walled City Park. Other than that, most people in Hong Kong are used to seeing drones and simply smile if they see you flying one.

I keep a list of spots in Hong Kong that are great outdoors places to fly your drone.

My Advice

The only area that I would advise you to not fly is near the harbour, on both Kowloon and Hong Kong Island sides. This area has many helipads, with moderate air traffic during the day time. In addition, many beaches also have helipads, and lifeguards on-duty will tell you not to fly near the helipads.

Also, as tempting as it may be, flying over special events could land you into trouble. Three drone operators were arrested for flying over the Formula-E event in 2016.

Other than that, Hong Kong is a very drone-friendly city. If you’re a first timer, go to Nam Sang Wai to practice. There’s ample open space, no buildings or people. Remember, 70% of Hong Kong isn’t developed. So get out of the main city and find your spot.

And remember to always fly safe!

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New Drone Laws Coming To Hong Kong In 2018?

Drone operators in Hong Kong may soon be required to register their drones. Anything between 250 grams and 7 kgs would need to be registered. And drones exceeding 7 kgs would need to be vetted by authorities and require insurance to protect against flight risks.