The summary
| Rule | What guides say | Certainty |
|---|---|---|
| Registration | Mandatory before arrival according to one source (SIPP-TA system, DGCA directive 008/2025); another cites SIPUDI, certificate valid 3 years | Guides disagree |
| Flight permit | No permit under 2 kg for leisure according to one source; a customs guide asks tourists for a temporary permit | Guides disagree |
| Airport | Banned within 15 km according to one guide, 9 km minimum according to another | Radius uncertain, Ngurah Rai affected |
| Max height | 150 m according to most guides, 120 m according to a Polish guide | Guides disagree |
| Night | Banned | Sources agree |
| Temples | Banned without the temple's or banjar's (village council) consent; one source mentions 5 km around sacred sites | Respect required in practice |
| Fines | From IDR 1.5 billion administrative fine to 5 billion and 5 years in prison for endangering an aircraft, according to guides | Figures unverified |
What to do before you go
- Look up the current registration system on the DGCA site and register the drone before arrival.
- Carry the papers: certificate, insurance, invoice.
- Lithium batteries in hand luggage only, discharged to 30-50% according to one guide; use a fireproof bag.
- Download a no-fly-zone app (DJI FlySafe or AirMap).
Where to fly, where to ask
Paid sites charge for drone use: Jatiluwih about IDR 150,000 and Handara Gate about IDR 200,000 according to guides, and temples such as Tanah Lot and Uluwatu ask for a donation or fee for aerial filming (unconfirmed). Always ask the temple or banjar before taking off near Tanah Lot or the Uluwatu temple. Also ask consent before flying over a villa or hotel.
The simplest option: a photographer with a drone
A private tour with a photographer and drone can be booked on GetYourGuide: the most-cited package includes a car with driver, a photographer and drone footage where permitted; entrance fees are extra. For insurance covering equipment, see travel insurance for Bali. Other preparation: before you go to Bali.
FAQ
Do you need a permit for a drone in Bali? Guides disagree: registration is mandatory according to most, a temporary permit according to one customs guide. Check with the DGCA.
Can you fly over a temple? No, not without the temple's or banjar's consent; flying over a ceremony is considered very disrespectful.
What is the maximum height? 150 m according to most guides, 120 m according to a Polish guide.
What is the fine? The figures found (IDR 1.5 to 5 billion) are unconfirmed: do not count on them, follow the rules.
