Hi! If you are planning a trip to zimbabwe and want to capture your trip with aerial photos using your drone. You are wondering whether or not drones are allowed in Zimbabwe. Then you are at the right place; drone laws in zimbabwe are regulated by the Civil aviation authority of zimbabwe (CAAZ).
In this post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about drone laws and regulations in Zimbabwe and how you can register your drone in Zimbabwe.
To ensure that your journey goes smoothly and your equipment remains safe. Keep reading our post!
Are Drones Allowed In Zimbabwe?
Yes, drones are allowed in Zimbabwe. However, certain regulations and guidelines must be followed when operating a drone in the country.
For example, drones must be registered with the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) and be operated safely and responsibly, following all applicable laws and regulations.
It is recommended to consult with the Civil Aviation Authority or seek legal advice before operating a drone in Zimbabwe.
How to Register Drone in Zimbabwe?
Registration of a drone in Zimbabwe is not that difficult. You have to follow these steps to register your drone:
Identify the Weight:
Determine if your drone needs to be registered in Zimbabwe, If your drone weighs more than 2 kilograms or you plan to use it for commercial purposes, you will need to register it with the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ).
Gather the Necessary Documents:
To register your drone, you must provide proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or purchase receipt. You will also need to provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
Fill out the Registration Application:
The CAAZ provides an online application form for drone registration. You will need to provide information about yourself, your drone, and your intended use of the drone.
Pay the Registration Fee:
The CAAZ charges a fee for drone registration, which is currently $50. You can pay this fee online or in person; you can visit at CAAZ office.
Wait for your Registration to be Approved:
After you have submitted your application and paid the fee, the CAAZ will review your application and determine whether you are eligible for drone registration.
If your application is approved, you will receive a registration certificate and be able to operate your drone legally in Zimbabwe.
General Rules for Flying a Drone in Zimbabwe:
Drone rules in Zimbabwe are pretty straightforward. If you want to fly a drone, then you have to follow these rules:
Register Your Drone:
In zimbabwe, if you want to fly a drone that weighs more than 2 kgs must be CAAZ. Obtain permission from the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) to operate a drone in Zimbabwe.
Follow the Rules:
Before flying your drone in Zimbabwe, remember to follow the rules regulated by CAAZ. So, Follow all regulations and guidelines set forth by the CAAZ for drone operations, including obtaining necessary licenses and permits.
Fly in Visual Line of Sight:
Suppose you are flying a drone at any time, whether day or night; you must fly your drone at a safe distance. Always fly the drone within the visual line of sight (VLOS). If the drone is not flying at a visible distance, it has a great chance of crashing into a building or a person.
Respect Peoples Privacy:
Drone laws in Zimbabwe don’t allow pilots to fly a drone on people or any moving vehicle. Before flying drones in Zimbabwe, you must respect people’s privacy, so avoid flying drones in a house or a people crowd.
Don’t use drones to capture images of random persons or private property. You must get permission from the property owner before flying a drone on that property.
Fly Below 400 Feet:
Drone laws in Zimbabwe don’t allow pilots to fly a drone above 400 feet. This is because airplane traffic could be disturbed if the flying drone is more than that height. So, Do not fly the drone higher than 400 feet above ground level.
Don’t fly Near Airports:
Flying drones near the airport are not allowed because a drone could be dangerous for planes to take off or land, which could be a reason for an accident. Only fly the drone within 5 miles of an airport with prior permission from the airport authorities.
Don’t Fly in Restricted Areas:
Do not fly the drone in restricted areas, such as military bases or national parks. These areas are so sensitive and don’t allow drones to fly at their places. So, don’t fly your drones near a military base or national parks.
Are drones allowed at Victoria Falls?
Yes, drones are allowed at Victoria Falls, but some restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and privacy of visitors. It is recommended to seek permission from the Victoria Falls National Park before flying a drone in the area.
Drones must not be flown in overcrowded areas or within 50 meters of any person or property. They must also not be flown above 400 feet.
Additionally, it is important to follow all local laws and regulations when operating a drone at Victoria Falls. It is always best to exercise caution and respect when flying drones in public spaces.
What are the Penalities of Breaking Drone rules in Zimbabwe?
If you don’t follow drone rules in Zimbabwe and are caught by CAAZ, then you may have to suffer the following punishments:
Fines:
One potential penalty for breaking drone rules in Zimbabwe could be a fine. The fine amount may depend on the severity of the violation and any harm that may have been caused. You may have to pay hundreds to thousands of dollars if you break drone rules.
Suspension of Drone License:
If a person is found to have repeatedly broken drone rules or committed a serious violation, they may have their drone license canceled. This would mean they would no longer be able to operate a drone legally in Zimbabwe.
Imprisonment:
In some cases, breaking drone rules may result in criminal charges. This could include charges for reckless endangerment or causing harm to others. Depending on the circumstances, a person may face jail time or other severe penalties if found guilty.
Drone Laws in Zimbabwe – Conclusion:
After reading this article, I hope you better understand drone laws in Zimbabwe. The pilot must follow the rules that drone operators must obtain permission from the Civil Aviation Authority before flying and follow guidelines such as maintaining a minimum distance from people, buildings, and vehicles.
Flying drones over restricted areas such as military bases and airports is illegal. While there are some limitations on drone use in Zimbabwe, these laws are necessary to protect public safety and security.
Read our other posts:
Drone Laws Tenerife? (How To Register And Fly)
Can You Fly A Drone In Sedona? Quick Guide 2023
How Long Can a Police Drone Stay in the Air? UPDATED 2022