Drone Pilots: Get Your Belize Permit Now

If you're planning on travelling to Belize and want to bring a drone, be aware that the country has strict rules governing their use. Currently, the Government of Belize prohibits the temporary importation of drones for recreational or personal usage. However, they are developing requirements and regulations to allow all travellers to operate their devices after meeting the necessary requirements under Belizean law. In the meantime, only international drone operators/travellers who have been commissioned for work or services by an approved local business or organisation in Belize can apply for authorisation to operate drones in the country. To obtain a permit, you must submit a letter of request to the Director of Civil Aviation, a copy of your identification card, a letter of approval from the Belize Film Commission, and a completed Drone Application Form. The Department of Civil Aviation will then analyse the request and coordinate with the Public Utilities Commission for the issuance of the authorisation. The operator will also need to pay a $30 BZE fee and receive the authorisation letter and permit before entering the country with their drone. It's important to follow these rules to avoid having your drone confiscated by customs upon arrival in Belize.

Drone import ban in Belize

Drone use is permitted in Belize, but only for commercial operations and subject to CAAB regulations. The government of Belize currently prohibits the temporary importation of drones for recreational or personal use. However, the government is working on developing requirements and regulations for recreational drone travellers to the country.

Belize has strict regulations regarding the use of drones. Currently, only commercial users are permitted to bring an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) into Belize if they have been contractually obliged by a Belize-based company or organisation. Drone operations are not allowed within Belize without direct authorization from the Belize Department of Civil Aviation (BDCA). This includes hobbyist drone flights by residents and foreign visitors.

To obtain authorization from the BDCA, the following steps must be taken:

• Submit a letter to the Director of Civil Aviation stating the purpose of the works and services being provided, the date of arrival in Belize, and the specific places where the proposed flights will take place. This letter must be emailed to [email protected] and [email protected] or [email protected].
• Submit a copy of the drone operator's identification card (a government-issued ID card or passport).
• Submit a letter of approval for works by the Belize Film Commission.
• Complete a Drone Application Form, which can be obtained by sending a request via email to [email protected].
• Visit the Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) office on the first floor of Philip Goldson International Airport to pay a $30.00 BZE Currency fee for the permit.
• Take the receipt to the Department of Civil Aviation, where the drone operator will receive the Authorization Letter and Permit for entrance and operations in Belize.

It is important to note that drone operations are prohibited within 3 miles of any airport or airfield in Belize. Additionally, drone operators should always respect others' privacy, avoid flying over people or large crowds, and refrain from flying in sensitive areas such as government or military facilities.

Drone permit requirements

The Government of Belize has strict rules governing the use of drones, especially for tourists. The country is currently only accepting applications for drone permits from international operators who have been commissioned for work or services by an approved local business or organisation in Belize.

Drone operators providing services in Belize will need to meet the following process and application requirements prior to entering the country:

• A letter of request/intent must be submitted to the Director of Civil Aviation, stating the purpose of the works and services being provided. This must be emailed to the Department of Civil Aviation at the addresses [email protected] and [email protected]. The letter must also state the arrival date of the drone operator(s) and the location(s) of drone operations to be conducted in Belize.
• A copy of the drone operator's identification card (a government-issued ID card, such as a passport).
• A letter of approval for works by the Belize Film Commission.
• A completed copy of the Drone Application Form, which can be found on the Belize Department of Civil Aviation website.

The Department of Civil Aviation will analyse the request and, if necessary, coordinate with the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to issue the authorisation to the applicant. The operator will then need to visit the Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) office on the first floor of Philip Goldson International Airport to pay a $30 BZE Currency fee for the permit and authorisation letter. The operator must then take this receipt to the Department of Civil Aviation to receive the authorisation letter and permit for entrance and operations in Belize.

The Government of Belize prohibits the temporary importation of drones for recreational/personal usage. However, the government is currently developing requirements and regulations for recreational drone use. This process will allow all travellers to operate their devices after meeting the necessary requirements under Belizean law.

Drone regulations in Belize

Belize has strict regulations governing the use of drones, especially for tourists visiting the country. The Government of Belize prohibits the temporary importation of drones for recreational or personal use. However, they are developing requirements and regulations to allow all travellers to operate their devices after meeting the necessary requirements under the Laws of Belize.

To obtain a permit for drone usage in Belize, you must be an international drone operator/traveller who has been commissioned for work or services by an approved local business or organisation in the country. The process involves submitting a letter of request/intent to the Director of Civil Aviation, stating the purpose of the work and services provided by the drone operator. This letter must be emailed to the Department of Civil Aviation at [email protected] and [email protected]. Additionally, you must provide a copy of your identification card (government-issued ID or passport), a letter of approval for work by the Belize Film Commission, and a completed Drone Application Form from the Belize Department of Civil Aviation website.

The Department of Civil Aviation will analyse the request and coordinate with the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) for the issuance of the authorisation. The operator will then need to pay a $30 BZE Currency fee for the permit and authorisation letter at the Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) office at Philip Goldson International Airport. Finally, the operator must take the receipt to the Department of Civil Aviation to receive the official authorisation letter and permit for entrance and operations in Belize.

It is important to note that drones cannot be flown within a five-mile radius of any public or private airport without explicit written consent from the Director of Civil Aviation. Additionally, there are general rules and guidelines that apply to all drone operations in Belize, including a maximum height of 400 feet and prohibitions on flying over people or outside of daylight hours.

Drone confiscation at customs

Understanding Local Laws and Regulations:

Before travelling with your drone, thoroughly research the drone laws and regulations of your destination. In Belize, for instance, the Government currently prohibits the temporary importation of drones for recreational or personal use. They are developing requirements and regulations for recreational drone travellers, but until then, it is essential to comply with the existing framework.

Permits and Authorisations:

Some countries, like Belize, require permits or authorisations for drone usage. Contact the relevant authorities, such as the Belize Department of Civil Aviation and the Public Utilities Commission, to inquire about the permit process. Be cautious of changing policies, as there have been reports of a moratorium on permit issuance in Belize.

Customs Procedures and Declarations:

When passing through customs, be prepared for inspections and declarations. Customs officials may ask specifically about drones, and it is crucial to be honest and cooperative. Failing to declare a drone or providing false information can lead to confiscation and legal consequences.

Lithium Batteries and Safety Concerns:

Drones containing lithium batteries may be classified as dangerous goods, and there are often restrictions on their transportation. Check with your airline regarding their policies on drones and lithium batteries. Keep in mind that spare lithium batteries are typically not allowed in checked luggage and must be packed in carry-on baggage.

No-Fly Zones and Local Sensitivities:

Even with the proper permits, be mindful of no-fly zones and local sensitivities. In Belize, there are restrictions on flying drones within a certain distance of airports, and some areas may be off-limits due to privacy or environmental concerns. Respect the privacy and peace of locals and other travellers, and avoid invading their personal space with your drone.

Insurance and Security:

Consider obtaining insurance for your drone, especially if it is valuable or essential to your work. This can provide financial protection in case of loss, damage, or confiscation. Additionally, be mindful of security concerns when travelling with a drone. Keep it secure and safely stored when not in use to prevent theft or accidental damage.

In conclusion, while travelling with a drone can provide unique photographic opportunities, it is crucial to respect local laws, obtain necessary permits, and be mindful of safety and privacy concerns. By following these guidelines, you can minimise the risk of drone confiscation at customs and have a more enjoyable travel experience. Remember to stay informed, plan ahead, and be a responsible drone operator and traveller.

Drone-friendly countries

Drone laws vary from country to country, with some nations embracing the technology more readily than others. Here is a guide to some of the world's most drone-friendly countries, including the necessary procedures and restrictions for flying a drone in each location.

New Zealand is known for its stunning natural landscapes and sparse population, making it a haven for aerial photography and video. The country's diverse scenery includes glaciers, rainforests, and fjords, all of which can be captured from a unique perspective with a drone. Thailand is another country that is drone-friendly, particularly the remote island of Koh Tao, which has an abundance of marine life due to the government's prohibition of fishing in the area.

In the United States, Maine stands out for its diverse landscapes, from rocky coastlines to mountain peaks and city scenes, all of which can be captured throughout the four seasons. Similarly, Rhode Island, the smallest state in the US, offers a range of shooting locations, including the quintessential New England beach town of Narragansett and the coastal town of Newport, all within a day's drive.

For those seeking an international destination, Cancun, Mexico, is a great option. The beaches of Playa Marlin offer crystal clear waters and pristine sand, providing breathtaking ocean views for drone photography. However, operators should be aware of the challenges of taking off and landing in the sand, as well as potential screen visibility issues due to the bright sun.

Belize, on the other hand, currently has stricter regulations regarding drones. The Government of Belize prohibits the temporary importation of drones for recreational or personal usage. However, they are developing requirements and regulations for recreational drone travellers, aiming to allow all travellers to operate their devices after meeting the necessary requirements under the Laws of Belize. For now, permits are only being issued to international drone operators who have been commissioned for work or services by an approved local business or organisation in Belize.

Frequently asked questions