Drone laws in Brazil (updated for 2020)

brazil-drone-laws
height flight limit

150m max height

can't fly over crowds of people

Don't fly over crowds

plane icon white

Don't fly near airports

Only line of sight

All Drone Laws in Brazil for 2020 (Ultimate Guide)

This is a guide for Brazil drone laws in 2020 (updated every year) where you'll get a clue about what you can or shouldn't do while flying and travelling through this country.

Table of Contents

Can I fly my drone in Brazil?

Yes, drones are legal in Brazil. The body tasked with overseeing the operation and regulation of unmanned aerial vehicles in Brazil is the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC). The publication of regulations back in 2017, authorized the use of drones for civilian operations. 

 

Who do I contact?

For the latest information and updates on drone flying in Brazil visit the Brazilian Civil Aviation Office.

  • For information on registration of drones gtno@anac.gov.br 
  • Telephone (+32)022774307

 

N/B Offices are open round the clock

What are the drone rules in Brazil

Brazil regulates the use of both recreational (hobby) drones and commercial drones with strict rules. Here is an outlay of the laws. 

  • checkmark
    Mark your drone
    Inscribe the registration number and personal details onto the drone
  • height icon
    Height limit of 122m
    In clear weather conditions
  • city icon
    Keep off sensitive and restricted areas
    Such places include but are not limited to military areas and other vital infrastructure
  • plane icon
    No flying near airports
    9 km from airpots and land immediately after you see an aircraft
  • crowd icon
    Don't fly over crowds
    Do not fly over any person or moving vehicle
  • line of sight icon
    Line of sight
    Keep your done within the visual line-of-sight of an observer who is next to you or in direct communication with you
  • drone distace icon
    No auto-pilot drive drone allowed
    A pilot must be physically present to navigate the drone from the ground
  • moon day icon night flying
    No night flying
    Do not fly at night unless your drone has lighting

How can I register my drone in Brazil

Any drone above 250 g has to be registered in Brazil. The age limit for such drones is 18 and can you must have third party insurance. 

Can I fly a drone in Brazil without having it registered?

As a foreigner, who intends to fly their drone higher than the 122 m limit, or exceed the 250 g weight category, it would be prudent if you fill this form before you arrive in Brazil. In about 15 days or so, your application will have been processed. 

How to get drone airworthiness certificate in Brazil (CAER)

A commercial drone user using a UAV exceeding 25 Kg needs the authorization from ANAC to operate their aircraft. The CAER certificate is issued before you purchase the drone to ensure you are capable of handling yourself with the drone. 

Can I bring my drone to Brazil?

Going by published ANAC rules on drone use, there are no restrictions on bringing drones to Brazil. However, it must be only one. Check with your airline and confirm its drone storage policy prior to takeoff. 

What are the restricted areas for flying drones in Brazil?

As of now, we haven’t heard of any no-fly zones of drones emanating from Brazil. Back in 2016, however, drone maker DJI partnered with Brazilian authorities and the military to safeguard the airspace during the athletic events.

Can I be penalized for flying a drone illegally in Brazil?

If you happen to breach the laws, why not? The penalties are either a fine or imprisonment. Brazil is a large country offering isolated flying sites on some of the coastal beaches or the country’s interior. Keep off the cities as they often land people into trouble one way or the other.

What are my top drones to fly safely in Brazil?

My following two recommendations are 2 great compact drones that are quite silent and also small enough to travel with and not stand out as annoying.

1.Dji Mavic Mini - The best international travel drone (under 250g)

DJI has surprised us with this incredible camera drone under 250g, which is half of the weight required for registering in the first place.

 

I have covered it much more in depth in my article review and even compared it with the DJI Spark and Mavic Air.

Check Price and reviews

Advantages

  • 30 min battery life
  • under 250g
  • super portable
  • 4km range
  • can edit videos in the app

DISAdvantages

  • no obstacle avoidance
  • no settings for iso and shutter speed

2.Dji Mavic Air 2 - My favorite drone overall

mavic air 2 package fly more combo
If you want more control over things like shutter speed, iso and such, the best professional drone that still falls under the 500g category is the DJI Mavic Air.
 
It's made mostly for people who want to play around with settings and enter into the pro category.
 

 

DJI lowered it's price since it was first released.

Check Price and reviews

Advantages

  • 3 way sensors
  • 68kph (fastest among the 3)
  • follow me mode(quite a few options)
  • 8gb internal storage
  • ISo & shutter speed settings
  • 6 photo modes
  • takes RAW photos
  • 100mbps bitrate

DISAdvantages

  • battery life ins't that amazing

Restricted Areas and Geofencing (drone FLying map)

The best way to figure out what areas you can fly in, while you're here is by consulting DJI offilicial map.
They do a great job mapping the places that one should avoid while flying in every country:

  • airports
  • military bases
  • prisons
  • power plants
  • any high risk areas
romania flying map dji