Consumer Drone → South Africa

SACAA registration required; RPA licence needed

Details

South Africa requires all remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs) to be registered with SACAA (South African Civil Aviation Authority). Operators need an RPA licence. No-fly zones include airports, game reserves (most wildlife areas), national parks, and urban areas. Maximum altitude 120m. Enforcement in South Africa carries fines from ZAR 500 to ZAR 500,000 under Customs and Excise Act 91 of 1964 s.83 (typical personal cases are handled as civil infringements).

Quantity limit

With SACAA registration and licence

Documentation required

• SACAA RPA registration
• RPA operator licence

Legal reference

SACAA Part 101 regulations

Leaving with this item

Consumer drones may generally be exported from South Africa for personal use; higher-specification drones face dual-use controls and many destinations restrict drone import.

Practical advice

Register before flying. Most safari and wildlife areas prohibit drones — this covers the majority of tourist attractions.

Customs authority

South African Revenue Service (SARS) — Customs and Excise · https://www.sars.gov.za