Drones are becoming extremely popular in Nepal for filmmaking, event coverage, tourism, mapping, agriculture, and inspection work. But the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) enforces strict rules for drone operation and yes, flying a drone without a permit can get you fined or even arrested.

If you're planning to fly a drone in Nepal, whether as a tourist, filmmaker, surveyor, or business, you MUST understand the legal requirements.

This guide covers drone categories, permit process, restricted zones, penalties, and usage rules updated for 2025.

1. Who Regulates Drones in Nepal?

Drone operations in Nepal are regulated by:

Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN)

Under:

• “Requirements Related to the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) 2072 & 2075”

CAAN controls:

• Drone registration

• Operating permissions

• Flight zones

• Safety restrictions

• Penalties

2. Drone Categories in Nepal

Drones are classified by weight:

A. Micro Drone (under 250g)

• Used for hobby, recreational flying

• No permit required if flown in open areas

• Restrictions still apply

B. Mini / Small Drone (250g – 2kg)

• Requires permission for aerial photography or commercial use

• Must register drone

C. Medium Drone (2kg – 25kg)

• Requires CAAN approval + local authority permission

D. Large Drone (Above 25kg)

• Restricted without high-level approval

• Used mostly for military, rescue, industrial operations

3. Drone Usage Rules in Nepal (2025)

1. Always fly below 200 ft (60 meters)

• Higher altitudes need special permission.

2. Drone must always be in visual line-of-sight (VLOS)

3. Do NOT fly near airports

• Minimum distance: 5 km away from airports/helipads.

4. Avoid flying over crowds, highways, temples & public gatherings

5. Do NOT fly in restricted zones, including:

• Government buildings

• Military areas

• Border regions

• National parks (without special permit)

• Heritage sites (UNESCO zones)

6. Do NOT fly at night without approval

7. Do NOT carry hazardous items or weapons

8. Commercial use ALWAYS requires permit

4. Drone Permit & Permission Requirements in Nepal

You need permission depending on:

• Drone weight

• Location

• Purpose (commercial/film/event/survey)

A. Recreational Use

• Micro drones: no permit if flown safely

• Small drones: need local authority approval

B. Commercial Use (Photography/Filmmaking)

Requires:

1. Drone Registration

2. Municipality Permission

3. Police Clearance

4. CAAN Authorization

C. Surveying, Mapping, Industrial Use

Must obtain:

• CAAN UAS permit

• Ministry-level approval (depending on area)

D. Foreigners (Tourists)

Foreign drone operators MUST:

• Declare drone at airport

• Take prior permission from CAAN

• Use drone only in permitted zones

5. Penalties for Illegal Drone Use in Nepal

Illegal drone operation can lead to:

Fines: NPR 5,000 – NPR 50,000+

• Depending on severity and zone.

Drone Seizure

• Authorities can confiscate equipment.

Police Case or Legal Action

• If flown over restricted zones or government areas.

Blacklisting from CAAN Drone Operations

• Commercial operators risk losing licensing rights.

6. How to Apply for a Drone Permit in Nepal (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Register the Drone

Submit drone details:

• Brand

• Model

• Serial number

• Owner info

Step 2: Submit Application to CAAN

Include:

• Intended flight area

• Flight height

• Purpose

• ID documents

Step 3: Get Local Police Permission

• Especially for commercial and aerial photography.

Step 4: Municipality/Ward Approval

• Some areas require local-level approval.

Step 5: Receive Final CAAN Authorization

• Issued within 1–7 days depending on purpose.

7. Where Can You Fly a Drone in Nepal?

Allowed Areas

• Open fields

• Rural areas

• Public parks (non-crowded)

• Private property with permission

Restricted Areas

• Tribhuvan Airport airspace

• Army barracks

• Police HQ areas

• Government buildings

• Border areas

• National parks (without special permit)

• Heritage zones (Swayambhu, Pashupatinath, Boudha, Patan Durbar Square)