Drones: registration & rules

Basic rules

Visual line of sight (VLOS), max 120 m altitude, not over crowds, not over people without consent, not near airports (8+ km), not at night without special gear.

Registration

In most countries drones 250 g+ require registration. Commercial shooting — a separate permit/pilot certificate. In Ukraine — registration with the State Aviation Service for commercial flights.

Zones

Red zones: airports, military sites, government buildings, reserves (separate permits). The manufacturer's app (DJI Fly) shows geozones — check before every takeoff.

Insurance

Crash liability is on the pilot: third-party insurance is mandatory for commercial flights in most jurisdictions. Cost ~$100–300/year, covers property and injuries.

Privacy

Filming people and private property without consent = privacy lawsuit. Commercial filming of people — release. Over private property — owner consent, even in public airspace.

Martial law

In Ukraine under martial law civilian drone flights are restricted — filming is possible only with approval from local/military administration. Check current rules before flying.