Drone Photography in China
Home Drone Photography in China
Last Updated on May 10, 2024
In this article, you will discover the most up-to-date regulations governing drone photography in China. You will also become informed about where it is permissible to fly drones in China, as well as how to register your drone in a step-by-step process.
2024 Regulations for Drone Photography in China
China has implemented revised drone flying policies as of January 1, 2024. The key changes focus on two main aspects: registration and altitude restrictions.
- All drones must undergo real-name registration, regardless of their weight. Learn how to register your drone in China.
- The altitude for light drones must not exceed 120 meters. Flying beyond this limit requires airspace approval, and only after the approval is granted can the UAV operate. Only individuals with a drone pilot license are eligible to apply for airspace clearance.
- The category of light drones encompasses the Mavic, Air, Mini, Spark, and Inspire series.
How to register my drone in China?
Do I have to register my drone in China?
Literally, yes.
You can register on the website of CAAC here: https://uas.caac.gov.cn/.
Ironically, the website is available only in Chinese, and registration mandates both a Chinese cell phone number and a WeChat account.
Without a Chinese cell phone number and a WeChat account, it is impossible to complete the process. Therefore, you will need to seek assistance from a Chinese friend.
We offer drone registration services for a fee of US$50. Just send us two photos of your drone to [email protected]: one showing the whole drone and another showing the serial number (usually found on the battery box).
I will guide you through the step-by-step process of registering your drone. Please ensure you have a Chinese cell phone number, are familiar with using WeChat, and have already signed in.
* Click on the image to zoom in and view it clearly.
Step 2
![How to register a drone in China]()
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- 3 Just click 'Next'
The details shown here are the ones you submitted during sign-up and include 'Name, ID type, ID number, cellphone number, and email'. Please note that they cannot be altered here.
Step 3
![How to register a drone in China]()
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- 4 Use WeChat to scan the QR code for 'Face Recognition Authentication'
You can proceed with the instructions to complete the authentication process. Once it is done, you will be redirected to the next.
Step 4
![How to register a drone in China]()
![How to register a drone in China]()
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- 5 Click on the magnifying glass icon to select the 'manufacturer name'. Then, choose the first option, which is DJI.
- 6 Click the magnifier sign to choose the 'drone model'
- 7 Choose the first option
- 8 Enter your drone's serial number (SN), which can be found inside your battery box.
Step 5
![How to register a drone in China]()
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- 9 Check the options that describes how you intend to use your drone.
We recommend selecting the first and second options, 'entertainment' and 'drone photography', as the other choices might draw special attention.
Step 6
![How to register a drone in China]()
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- 10 Drag and drop or click to upload an exterior photo of your drone.
- 11 Drag and drop or click to upload a photo containing the drone's serial number (SN)
- 12 Click on the 'Complete Registration' button to finalize the process.
Upon completing the registration, the system will send you a QR code via email.
Where can and cannot fly your drone?
| Can Fly | No Fly Zone | |
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| Beijing |
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| Shanghai |
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| Guilin |
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| Huangshan |
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| Zhangjiajie |
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| Zhangye |
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| Fujian |
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| Yunnan |
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| Sichuan |
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| Xinjiang |
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| Tibet |
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* Before flying, you are required to report to the local police station and get the permission.
Can I fly my drone if there are no clear regulations?
It's best not to anticipate being granted permission as some areas will simply deny it.
Avoid drawing attention to yourself by opting for less crowded areas.
It's important to note that taking photos or videos near government buildings, politically unstable regions, or in large cities is not recommended.
Maximum flight altitude in China
Typically, flying below 120 meters in altitude is permissible, but flying above 200 meters without obtaining aircraft flight authorization from the CAAC is illegal.
Maximum horizontal distance in China
The maximum horizontal distance you can fly your drone with a single battery is around 5000 meters due to battery limitations. It is crucial to be aware of your drone's location at all times to prevent any mishaps such as losing it.
Photos Taken by DJI Drones