Drone and filming low in Tanzania
Drone filming in
Tanzania
is permitted but is strictly regulated and requires multiple permits from several authorities, including the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA), the Ministry of Defense, and the Tanzania Film Board. Flying without permission can result in heavy fines and drone confiscation.
Required Permits for Filming
To legally film with a drone in Tanzania, you must obtain several permits, especially if you are a foreign national or filming for commercial purposes. The process can be lengthy, so it is recommended to start several weeks or months in advance.
| Authority |
|---|
| Purpose | Notes | |
|---|---|---|
| Tanzania Film Board | General filming permit | Mandatory for all filming activities, especially commercial ones. The application process requires a film synopsis, crew details, locations, and dates. |
| Ministry of Defense & National Service | Security clearance | Required for all foreign operators due to national security concerns. The Ministry may assign a military delegate to accompany the film crew at the operator’s expense. |
| Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) | Drone import and operation | You need an import permit to bring the drone into the country and a separate permit to operate it. Drones must be registered, and all operators must provide proof of ability to fly a drone from their home country. |
| Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) | Filming in National Parks/Reserves | Drones are generally prohibited in parks without special permission. Additional daily filming fees apply (e.g., $300/day for Serengeti), and operations must be supervised by park personnel. |
General Rules and Regulations
Once permits are secured, you must adhere to the following operational guidelines:
- Maximum Altitude: Drones must be flown no higher than 121 meters (400 feet) above ground level.
- Visual Line of Sight: The operator must maintain a direct visual line of sight with the drone at all times.
- Flight Times: Operations are restricted to daylight hours and good weather conditions.
- No-Fly Zones: Flying is prohibited within 3 km of domestic airports, 5 km of international airports, over military bases, government buildings, crowds, or private property without permission.
- Wildlife and Privacy: Maintain a safe distance from animals to avoid disturbance and do not fly over other tourists.
- Insurance: Drone insurance is required for all operations.
For more information and application forms, you should consult the official Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority website. Many operators choose to use local agents or safari companies to navigate the complex permit process.
