Beijing (AFP) - China will ban the sale of drones in Beijing for security reasons and users must systematically apply for a permit to fly their devices in the capital, according to regulations that will come into force on Friday.

First modification: 05/01/2026 - 12:53

It will also be prohibited to send unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to Beijing, as well as 17 essential components.

"As a capital, Beijing faces more challenges in low-altitude airspace safety, so it is urgent to strengthen UAV management," said a municipal official, Xiong Jinghua, when announcing these rules in March.

Residents who use drones will have three months to register their devices at police stations.

The airspace of the city, which has 22 million inhabitants, will be closed to the flight of drones without prior approval from the authorities and fines of up to 10,000 yuan (about $1,460) and confiscation of the devices are expected in case of violation.

Sellers of these devices will also be exposed to fines.

The new regulation provides exemptions for certain uses such as the fight against terrorism, agriculture, education and sports.

© 2026 AFP

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