Drone Event Rules: What You Must Follow to Fly Safely at Indian Events

If you’re planning to bring a drone to a wedding, concert, or corporate gathering, you need more than just a cool gadget. India has specific rules that keep crowds safe and protect the sky. Ignoring them can mean fines, confiscation, or even a ban on future flights. Let’s break down exactly what you need to do.

Who Needs a Drone Licence?

Any drone weighing more than 250 g requires a licence from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). That includes most hobby‑grade and all professional models. If you’re using a drone under 250 g, you still need to register it on the Digital Sky portal, but a full licence isn’t mandatory.

Even if you have a licence, you must get a specific permission—called a “Special Permission Certificate” (SPC)—for each event. The SPC is the authority’s way of confirming that the location, time, and purpose of your flight won’t interfere with aviation or public safety.

Step‑by‑Step Checklist for Event Flights

1. Check the venue’s no‑fly zones. Airports, military bases, and certain government buildings are off‑limits. Use the DGCA’s online map or a reliable app to confirm the area is clear.

2. Apply for the SPC at least 7 days before the event. You’ll need the event date, exact coordinates, flight altitude, and the drone’s make and model. The process is online and usually takes 24‑48 hours once submitted.

3. Secure insurance. Liability coverage isn’t mandatory but many venues require it. A basic ₹10,000‑₹15,000 policy covers damage to property or people.

4. Prepare a flight plan. Write down take‑off and landing points, maximum height, and emergency procedures. Share this with the event organizer and any security personnel on site.

5. Do a pre‑flight check. Battery levels, GPS lock, propeller condition, and firmware updates should all be verified right before you launch.

6. Follow the 5‑km radius rule. You must stay at least 5 km away from any aerodrome unless you have a special waiver. Violating this can trigger immediate grounding.

7. Maintain visual line of sight (VLOS). Someone on your team must always see the drone with the naked eye. This rule applies even if you’re using an FPV headset.

8. Respect privacy. Avoid pointing the camera at people who haven’t consented, especially in private areas like dressing rooms or hotel rooms.

9. Log the flight. After the event, record flight time, any incidents, and the final battery status. This log helps with future permissions and insurance claims.

By following these steps, you’ll keep the event fun and the authorities happy. Remember, the rules are there to protect you and the crowd, so treat them as part of your planning checklist, not an after‑thought.

Having the right paperwork ready also boosts your professional reputation. Event planners prefer vendors who can prove they’re compliant because it reduces headaches for everyone involved.

Finally, stay updated. Drone regulations in India evolve quickly—new restrictions can appear with just a government notice. Subscribe to the DGCA newsletter or check their website before each flight.

With the licence, SPC, insurance, and a solid checklist, you’re set to capture stunning aerial footage without any legal hiccups. Happy flying!