CAAS Operator Permits and Activity Licence Classes Explained
A breakdown of Class 1 and Class 2 Activity Permits, the Operator Permit application process, CFMS tracker requirements, and the 2025 amendment timeline for B-RID modules.
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Singapore UA Regulations · April 2026
Navigating Drone Regulations & Aerial Photography in Singapore
A factual reference covering CAAS unmanned aircraft rules, operator permits, no-fly zones, registration procedures, and notable aerial photography locations across the city-state. Based on publicly available regulatory documents and official CAAS guidance.
250g
Registration threshold weight
200ft
Maximum altitude (AMSL)
S$25
Registration label cost
5km
Aerodrome exclusion radius
Regulatory Guides & Location Notes
Aerial Photography Locations in Singapore: Where to Fly Legally
A look at officially designated UAFAs, popular open-air locations like Marina Barrage and East Coast Park, and essential OneMap checks before launch.
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How to Register a Drone in Singapore: Step-by-Step Process
Covering the two-step registration procedure via SingPost and the UA Portal, eligibility requirements, label placement guidelines, and penalties for non-compliance.
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Regulatory Framework
Singapore's Approach to Unmanned Aircraft
Singapore regulates unmanned aircraft operations through the Air Navigation Act and subsidiary legislation administered by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS). The regulatory framework distinguishes between recreational and non-recreational operations, with separate permit categories for each.
Since February 2025, amended regulations have introduced phased requirements for Centralised Flight Management System (CFMS) tracking devices and Broadcast Remote Identification (B-RID) modules. The second phase, effective December 2025, mandates remote identification capability on all registered UA operating outdoors.
Key Regulatory Bodies
- CAAS — Issues Operator Permits and Activity Permits
- RSAF — Consulted for aerial photography near military installations
- MHA — Reviews sensitive-area flight requests
- NEA / NParks — Manage park and nature reserve fly restrictions
Aerial Photography
Flying for Photography in Singapore
Aerial photography using drones in Singapore requires separate clearance from CAAS, even if an Operator Permit is already held. Applications are submitted through the SkySAFE portal, with a typical processing time of 14 working days. The clearance is free of charge but requires a detailed flight path and a completed Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA).
CAAS coordinates with the Republic of Singapore Air Force and the Ministry of Home Affairs during the review process. Flights near military installations, critical infrastructure, and certain government buildings require additional scrutiny and may be subject to specific conditions or outright denial.
Photography Clearance Checklist
- Valid Operator Permit (if applicable)
- Class 1 Activity Permit for non-recreational work
- HIRA document (max 2 MB upload)
- Detailed flight path on map
- 14-day advance submission via SkySAFE
