Drones have become a game-changer across many sectors in Kenya—from filmmaking and agriculture to surveying and security. But flying a drone here isn’t just about pressing “take off.” The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has put in place clear, updated regulations to keep the skies safe, protect privacy, and ensure responsible use. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a commercial operator, understanding these laws is crucial to avoid fines, legal trouble, or even losing your drone.

1. Why Kenya’s Drone Laws Matter More Than Ever

Drones offer incredible opportunities—capturing stunning aerial footage, monitoring crops, mapping landscapes, and much more. But they also bring risks: collisions with manned aircraft, privacy invasions, accidents causing injury or property damage, and security concerns.

To balance innovation with safety, Kenya’s government established the Civil Aviation (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Regulations, 2020, which were recently updated. These rules help:

• Protect public safety and privacy
• Manage Kenya’s increasingly busy airspace
• Ensure drone operators are trained and accountable
• Prevent misuse in sensitive areas like airports and government facilities

Flying a drone without following these rules isn’t just risky—it’s illegal.

2. The Legal Framework: Who Regulates and What You Need to Know

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) is the official body regulating drones. Their 2020 regulations set out clear requirements for:

• Drone registration: Every drone must be registered with KCAA before it takes flight.
• Operator certification: Commercial drone pilots must obtain a Remote Aircraft Operators Certificate (ROC).
• Pilot licensing: Operators must be trained and licensed through KCAA-approved programs.
• Insurance: Commercial drone operations require third-party liability insurance covering at least KES 5 million.

The regulations also classify drones and operations based on risk, which determines what permissions you need.

3. Registering Your Drone: The First Step to Legality

Before you fly, your drone needs to be officially registered with KCAA. The process is straightforward but mandatory:

1. Submit proof of ownership and valid ID
2. Provide drone details: model, weight, and intended use
3. Pay the registration fee
4. Receive a certificate of registration

Registration not only legitimizes your drone but also helps KCAA track drones for safety and security purposes. Importantly, you cannot transfer ownership of a drone without KCAA’s approval, and importing or exporting drones also requires their consent.

4. Understanding Operational Categories: What Kind of Drone Operator Are You?

Kenya classifies drone operations into three categories based on risk:

Category A: Low Risk

• Drones up to 25 kg
• Flights must remain within Visual Line of Sight (VLOS)
• Maximum altitude of 400 feet (about 120 meters) above ground level
• Must stay at least 50 meters away from people and 7-10 kilometers from airports
• Flight notification to KCAA required

Category B: Medium Risk

• Operations with higher risk than Category A
• Require operational authorization from KCAA before flying
• Must conduct a safety risk assessment and implement risk mitigation
• Includes flights sharing airspace with other aircraft
• Still generally within VLOS

Category C: High Risk

• Includes flights Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) and complex operations
• Requires special equipment certification and pilot qualifications
• Must have a Certificate of Airworthiness from KCAA
• Subject to strict Air Traffic Control (ATC) guidance
• Only allowed with explicit KCAA authorization

Knowing your category helps you understand what permissions and safety measures you must follow.

5. Key Operational Rules: Flying Safe and Legal

Here are the must-know rules for all drone operators in Kenya:

• Altitude limit: Do not fly above 400 feet (120 meters) AGL.
• Visual Line of Sight: Keep your drone within your sight at all times unless authorized otherwise.
• Distance from people: Maintain at least 50 meters distance from uninvolved persons, vehicles, or vessels.
• No flying over public roads: Drones cannot be flown directly over public roads or used for takeoff/landing on them.
• Restricted zones: Flying near airports, military bases, prisons, government buildings, and national parks is prohibited without special permits.
• Airport proximity:
  • No-fly zone within 10 km of code C, D, E, and F airports without authorization.
  • No-fly zone within 7 km of code A and B airports without authorization.
• Night flights: Only allowed with KCAA authorization, typically for security or emergency operations.
• Privacy: Do not capture images or videos of individuals on private property without consent.

Following these rules protects public safety and your legal standing.

6. Licensing and Training: Becoming a Certified Drone Pilot

If you’re flying commercially, you must be a licensed drone pilot:

• You must be at least 18 years old and a Kenyan citizen or resident.
• Complete training at a KCAA-approved Remote Pilot Training Organization (RTO).
• Pass the exams to obtain a Remote Pilot License (RPL).
• Maintain your competency through periodic refresher courses as required.

This ensures operators understand safety, airspace rules, and emergency procedures.

7. Insurance: Protecting Yourself and Others

Commercial drone operators must have third-party liability insurance with a minimum coverage of KES 5 million. This insurance covers damages or injuries your drone may cause to others.

Insurance is not just a legal requirement—it’s a financial safeguard that protects your business from costly claims. Learn more about drone insurance requirements in Kenya.

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8. Enforcement and Penalties: What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

KCAA actively monitors drone operations and enforces regulations. Non-compliance can lead to:

• Fines up to KES 500,000
• Suspension or revocation of your pilot license or ROC
• Confiscation of your drone
• Legal liability for damages or privacy violations

The best way to avoid these penalties is to stay informed and compliant. Understand the regulations and risks in Kenya’s airspace.

9. Special Permits and Exemptions: When Can You Fly Outside the Rules?

Certain operations require special permissions:

• Flying in restricted or sensitive areas like national parks or government facilities.
• Conducting BVLOS flights or night operations.
• Using drones for emergency services or security surveillance.

Applying for these permits involves submitting detailed flight plans and risk assessments to KCAA.

10. Importation and Transfer of Drones: What You Need to Know

Bringing drones into Kenya or transferring ownership requires KCAA approval. This helps maintain control over drone use in the country and ensures all operators comply with safety standards.

11. Best Practices for Drone Operators in Kenya

• Always register your drone and keep your registration up to date.
• Obtain the necessary licenses and insurance before flying commercially.
• Plan flights carefully, respecting altitude and distance limits.
• Avoid restricted zones unless you have explicit permission.
• Stay informed about regulatory updates from KCAA.
• Respect privacy—always get consent before filming private property.
• Keep detailed records of your flights and maintenance.

By following these, you’ll fly safely, legally, and responsibly. Stay updated on the latest trends in drone usage.