Drone Laws in Taiwan: Registration, Permits, and No-Fly Zones (2026)

Taiwan's "open in principle" philosophy sounds relaxed compared to Singapore or Japan, but the practical restrictions are significant. The 300-meter VLOS distance is explicitly codified (not just guidance), night flying is banned without permits, and the new seaport rules added 11 major ports to the restricted list in 2026. The system is also unusual in that it bans DUI drone operation and explicitly prohibits controlling two or more drones simultaneously.

Taiwan's drone rules are codified in Chapter 9-2 of the Civil Aviation Act, Articles 99-13 through 99-24. The Commercial Port Act (amended in 2026) adds seaport-specific restrictions. All regulations are administered by the Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC).

Registration system

Registration is free and handled entirely online through the CAA drone portal. All drones over 250g must be registered before flying. For drones over 2 kg, the pilot also needs an operator permit, which involves passing a CAA knowledge test. The registration number must be displayed visibly on the drone.

The 300-meter VLOS rule

Taiwan is one of the few countries that explicitly codifies a maximum VLOS distance. Most jurisdictions simply say "maintain visual line of sight" and leave the distance to pilot judgment. Taiwan sets a hard limit at 300 meters. The rule also explicitly states that binoculars and FPV goggles cannot serve as the primary means of maintaining visual contact.

No multi-drone operations

The regulations explicitly prohibit controlling two or more drones simultaneously. This is unusual. Many countries address this through operational permits rather than outright bans. In Taiwan, it is a blanket rule regardless of your experience level or permit status.

For more on drone licensing costs in different countries, see our guide.

Several aspects of Taiwan's drone framework stand out from regional and global norms. The cybersecurity testing requirement, seaport restrictions, and DUI ban all reflect Taiwan's security-conscious approach to drone regulation.

Cybersecurity testing for sellers and importers

Since November 2025, all drone sellers and importers in Taiwan must provide cybersecurity test results when registering products for sale. This requirement targets concerns about data security in consumer drones, particularly models with Chinese-manufactured components. Non-compliant sellers face fines up to NT$1,500,000. This is a seller/importer requirement, not a pilot requirement, but it affects which drones are legally available for purchase in Taiwan.

Seaport restrictions (March 2026)

The Commercial Port Act amendments that took effect in March 2026 added 11 major seaports to Taiwan's restricted zones. Drones must stay at least 30 meters from any vessel in these ports. The ports include Kaohsiung, Keelung, Taichung, Hualien, and seven others. Violations carry fines up to NT$1,500,000. This is a direct response to security concerns about port infrastructure surveillance.

DUI drone operation ban

Taiwan explicitly bans operating a drone while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While this seems obvious, most countries have not specifically codified it into their drone regulations. Taiwan treats it the same way it treats driving under the influence: as a separate, named violation.

Enforcement cases

Taiwan's enforcement has been tightening, particularly around airports and the new seaport zones.

• Taipei Airport violation: A pilot identified as "Warren" was fined NT$20,000 for flying in restricted airspace near Taipei Songshan Airport.
• Taichung (2024-2025): Multiple pilots received notifications and initial fines of NT$30,000 for violations in restricted urban zones.
• Seaport enforcement (March 2026): The first wave of enforcement under the new Commercial Port Act amendments began at Kaohsiung and Keelung ports, with fines up to NT$1,500,000 for violations.

Privacy considerations

Taiwan's Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA, amended May 2023) applies to drone-captured data, but there is no drone-specific privacy statute. General Criminal Code provisions on invasion of privacy apply. The lack of a drone-specific privacy law makes enforcement less predictable than in countries with explicit drone privacy statutes.

For more on privacy issues worldwide, see our drone spying laws guide and flying over private property guide.

Taiwan's "open in principle, prohibited by exception" approach means you start with the assumption that flying is allowed, then check for specific restrictions. Here are the main zones to watch.

National parks

Taiwan's five major national parks (Taroko Gorge, Kenting, Yangmingshan, Yushan, and Shei-Pa) prohibit drone flights without explicit filming permission from park authorities. Taroko Gorge is the most popular drone destination request, but unauthorized flying there results in fines. The application process requires advance notice and is typically only approved for professional media projects.

Night flying

Night operations are prohibited from sunset to sunrise without a CAA permit. Unlike countries that allow night flying with anti-collision lighting, Taiwan requires explicit authorization regardless of lighting equipment. This applies to all drone categories and weight classes.

For general night flying guidance, see our flying drones at night guide. For understanding airspace restrictions, check our drone no-fly zones guide.

Tourists can bring drones into Taiwan, but the process involves more steps than most Southeast Asian destinations. Imported drones must pass CAA inspection or validation, and the cybersecurity testing requirements for sellers (since November 2025) can affect which models are easily available if you need to buy or replace equipment locally.

What tourists need to know

• Drones over 250g must be registered with the CAA online portal (free) before flying.
• Drones over 2 kg require an operator permit, which involves a CAA knowledge test.
• Imported drones may need to pass CAA inspection or validation at customs.
• Night flying is prohibited without a permit, regardless of your drone's lighting.
• The 300-meter VLOS limit and 400-foot altitude ceiling apply at all times.
• Most national parks and all seaports are restricted or off-limits.

Practical tourist advice

Taiwan has stunning aerial photography opportunities: Taroko Gorge, the east coast cliffs, Sun Moon Lake, rice terraces in the south. But most of the iconic spots are either in national parks (permit required) or near airports and urban restricted zones. Research specific locations on the CAA drone map before your trip.

For drones over 250g, register online through the CAA portal before your first flight. The process is available in English. Pack batteries in carry-on luggage per airline rules, and carry proof of registration on your phone.

For tips on flying internationally, see our taking a drone on a plane guide. For understanding where you can fly globally, check our where you can fly a drone guide.