UK Drone Laws 2026: Everything You Need to Know
From January 1st 2026, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has introduced a major update to drone regulations. This new framework affects both hobbyist and professional drone operators, with key changes around drone classifications, registration, Remote ID, and flight rules.
Whether you’re flying sub-250g drones for content creation or operating high-end drones for TV and film, here’s everything you need to know to stay legal and compliant.
New UK Drone Classifications: UK0 to UK6
All drones sold in the UK from 1st January 2026 onwards must now carry a UK-specific class mark, ranging from UK0 to UK6. These classifications replace the EU’s C0–C6 system, although EU class-marked drones remain valid in the UK until 31st December 2027.
If your drone has no class mark and was bought before 2026, it’s now considered a legacy drone. You can still fly it, but your operational permissions may be more limited.
Updated Registration Rules
UK drone registration has become stricter in 2026:
Flyer ID: Now required for any drone 100g or heavier
Operator ID: Required if your drone:
Has a camera and weighs 100g or more, or
Weighs 250g or more (even without a camera)
These changes are especially relevant to pilots flying drones like the DJI Mini 3 Pro or newer sub-250g FPV quads with cameras.
Remote ID is Coming
The UK is beginning the rollout of Remote Identification (Remote ID). Here’s how it applies:
All new drones with UK class marks must broadcast Remote ID
Legacy drones are currently exempt, but Remote ID will become mandatory for most from 1st January 2028
Remote ID transmits your drone’s location and operator ID, improving airspace transparency and safety—especially in urban areas or near controlled airspace.
Night Flying: New Light Requirement
If you fly at night, your drone must now be equipped with a flashing green light for visibility. This rule applies to both Open and Specific category flights.
Many drones already comply (such as DJI models), but check your setup before your next evening shoot.
Open Category Drone Operations
The Open Category is for low-risk, non-commercial operations and remains divided into three subcategories:
A1 – Fly over people (with very lightweight drones)
A2 – Close to people (requires additional training)
A3 – Far from people and buildings
You can continue to fly legacy drones here using weight-based rules, as defined by the retained EU regulation 2019/947. But remember:
Flying over crowds or large gatherings is always prohibited in the Open Category, no matter what drone you use.
Specific Category: More Paperwork, More Access
If your operation doesn’t fit into A1–A3 (e.g. urban filming, stadium work, or near infrastructure), you’ll need a CAA Operational Authorisation under the Specific Category.
Key changes in 2026:
Night operations now require a flashing green light
Newly released drones must include Remote ID from day one
Check for a Drone Class Mark
To fly under class-specific privileges, your drone must have an official manufacturer label and a valid declaration of conformity.
Here’s how to check:
Inspect the drone body (e.g. under the arm or near the battery bay)
Check your box/manual for class info like “UK1” or “C2”
Only use approved parts — modifying your drone with third-party propellers or batteries could invalidate the class mark
DJI will not retroactively label older drones, so if it’s not there, you’ll be flying under legacy rules
Flying in Sensitive Locations: Airports, Prisons & More
When planning a shoot near controlled or restricted areas, ensure you understand:
FRZs (Flight Restriction Zones) around major airports like Heathrow and London City
R-Zones (R157, R158, R159) over central London landmarks and royal sites
Battersea Heliport – Coordination often required for nearby flights
Prisons – You must obtain special permission from the HM Prison Service before flying
Apply for a Non-Standard Flight (NSF) Permit for complex locations:
GVC – Required or Not?
While a GVC (General Visual Line of Sight Certificate) isn’t required for all drone work—especially with sub-250g drones—many landowners, clients, and locations will insist on it as proof of training and accountability.
For professional operators, it’s still a strong asset.
Need Help Navigating the Rules?
Drone regulations are evolving, and compliance can make or break your shoot. Whether you need aerial cinematography in London’s restricted airspace or Remote ID-compliant equipment for a national brand, we handle it all—safely and legally.
If you want it done right, call Eastwood Drones.
We’re trusted by leading broadcasters, studios, and brands across the UK.