Drone Laws and Regulations in Japan
Find out whether you are allowed to fly your drone in Japan and what
rules apply or whether it is prohibited in general. We do not assume any liability.
If you find outdated or wrong information or if you want to submit the drone regulations for countries that are currently not listed, feel free to contact us here.
RECREATIONAL DRONE PILOTS (HOBBYISTS)
Is private drone flying allowed in Japan?
Yes, but you need to apply to the rules listed below.
Flying in airspace A, B, C requires an approval.
Maximum Height
Max 150m / 492ft
> 150m / 492ft = permission required
Maximum Distance
None, but must be kept in line-of-sight of the operator at all times
unless approval for beyond line-of-sight has been given
Maximum Take-Off Weight
None
Competence Statement / License
Not required, but you need to submit an application in Japanese
for the permission or approval to the Ministry of Land, Infrastrcture,
Transport and Toruism at least 10 days (excl. Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays)
before you fly a drone. (Email Address can be found below)
Day Times
Day time operations only unless approval has been given
Labelling Requirements
Not required, but recommended
Drone Liability Insurance
Not required, but highly recommended
COMMERCIAL DRONE PILOTS (PROFESSIONALS)
Is commercial drone flying allowed in Japan?
Yes, but you need to apply to the rules listed below.
Flying in airspace A, B, C requires an approval.
Max 150m / 492ft
> 150m / 492ft = permission required
Maximum Height
Maximum Distance
None, but must be kept in line-of-sight of the operator at all times
unless approval for beyond line-of-sight has been given
Not required, but recommended
Labelling Requirements
Maximum Take-Off Weight
None
Day time operations only unless approval has been given
Day Times
Drone Liability Insurance
Not required, but highly recommended
Not required, but you need to submit an application in Japanese
for the permission or approval to the Ministry of Land, Infrastrcture,
Transport and Toruism at least 10 days (excl. Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays)
before you fly a drone. (Email Address can be found below)
Competence Statement / License
Drone Ban Zones
State institutes
Federal authority constructions
Regional authority constructions
Airport control zones (CTR)
People, Buildings, Vehicles (at least 30m / 98ft)
Event Sites
Hospitals
Operation sites of police, military, search- and rescue forces
You must always yield right of way to manned aircraft!
FOR DJI DRONES ONLY!
Please note that there are several constant and temporary drone ban zones (known as no-fly-zones) that either won't let your drone take-off at all or that will ask for a permission of yours.
Please click at both graphics to spot all blocked / restricted areas near your desired flying location.
Additional links and important email addresses
Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Drone Guide
Japanese Drone Counseling Service Contact Email Address
Submit your countries rules and laws for flying drones in the categories mentioned above
Facebook group for pilots from all around the globe (English)
Check out more drone laws and regulations.
Click here or at the image to see all listed countries.
Or submit the regulations of your country right here.
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