Drone ownership ban enters into force in Beijing

Beijing’s ban on possessing drones came into force yesterday, a measure authorities said would help ensure the security of China’s capital city.

The ban applies to urbanized and rural areas in the municipality of about 16,400km2 — an area roughly half the size of Belgium.

The ban, which Beijing announced in September, outlaws owning and storing uncrewed aerial vehicles to “safeguard the security of the capital.”

People walk past a “No Drone Zone” sign in Beijing on Sept. 19.

Photo: AFP

Transporting drones or their components into the city was also forbidden.

Owners had been forced to get rid of their devices ahead of yesterday’s implementation, either by reselling them at approved buy-back points or online. They could also have transported them outside the enforcement area.

Beijing, home to China’s central government, top leaders and the headquarters of the ruling Chinese Communist Party, has faced strict security measures.

The ban comes after airspace safety fears were raised in June when a small plane crashed into the city’s tallest skyscraper, killing the pilot and injuring 13 others.

Beijing had already banned drone sales in May, with owners required to register their devices with authorities, but permitted to keep them.

Anyone in possession of a drone could face a fine and the confiscation of their equipment. Exemptions for drone flights may be granted for specific reasons such as counterterrorism, law enforcement, emergency relief, agriculture or scientific research.

Drones have become extremely popular in China in the past few years, particularly for filming landscapes.