Drone Photography in China
Last Updated on March 5, 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.
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.
Click me
- 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.
Click me
- 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.
Click me
Click me
- 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.
Click me
- 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.
Click me
- 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.
What are the regulations for drone photography in popular photography destinations?
Guilin
Most areas allow for unrestricted drone flying, the downtown area of Guilin, mountainous regions in Yangshuo, and Li River are particularly ideal locations for drone photography.
Huangshan
Flying drones in Yellow mountains is strictly prohibited. Although you may come across some breathtaking drone footage, it's advisable not to attempt it.
On the other hand, you are allowed to fly drones freely in Hongcun and Xidi ancient villages.
Zhangjiajie
Flying is permitted anywhere in the Wulingyuan scenic area, but it is prohibited in the Tianmen Mountain area due to its proximity to the Zhangjiajie airport.
Xiapu
To date, there are no regulations in place, and numerous photographers use drones to capture stunning photos of the mudflat.
During a photo tour I led in Xiapu last time, over 10 drones were flown around us, resulting in some amazing shots when the tides came in.
Beijing
Flying a drone in downtown Beijing is completely illegal and prohibited, and it is designated as a NO-FLY ZONE.
Additionally, airport security and customs officials are vigilant about drones, and they may confiscate them. As a result, if you plan to travel to Beijing with a drone, exercise extreme caution.
The only location where you can fly a drone and capture photographs and videos is in the wild section of the Great Wall, but the altitude limit is 50 meters instead of the standard 120 meters. However, some individuals have encountered problems taking off from this area in the past, so you may face similar issues.
Shanghai
I came across some impressive videos of Shanghai shot from high-rise buildings, including one that flew through the hole at the top of the World Financial Center. Nevertheless, it is illegal to fly drones in the downtown area without prior permission, although foreign travelers are generally denied permission.
In certain water towns surrounding Shanghai, such as Zhujiajiao, Tongli, and Wuzhen, flying drones is permitted in less crowded areas.
Tibet and Xinjiang
Although Tibet and Xinjiang are known to be perfect locations for drone photography due to their expansive landscapes and stunning scenery, I advise against bringing any drone equipment for photography as a precautionary measure to avoid any unnecessary issues.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong continues to be excluded from the latest regulations, allowing drone flights without mandatory registration.
Nevertheless, Hong Kong has established its own set of guidelines:
1. Drones are permitted to operate at altitudes under 30 meters.
2. Operations should be conducted away from areas frequented by tourists.
3. Drones must be flown within the operator's line of sight.
4. Flying drones is prohibited during nighttime.
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
