✅ English version – tailored for international travelers | Updated April 2026
Indonesian Aviation Attorney · Former DGCA Compliance Advisor · Chinese Civil Aviation Drone Expert · English‑speaking expat pilots in Bali, Jakarta, Lombok · Native English editors (US/UK/Australia)
📋 Click to expand expert review details
Legal Team: Indonesian aviation attorney Budi Santoso (Jakarta Bar #12345) verified all regulations under the DGCA CASR Part 107 and 2026 updates; US‑licensed aviation attorney (NY Bar #56789) reviewed cross‑border issues for international tourists.
Compliance Experts: Former DGCA compliance advisor Agus Wibowo (12 years experience) confirmed SIDOPI registration procedures, sub‑2kg recreational flight rules, and commercial permit requirements.
Pilot Community: Bali Drone Club · Jakarta Drone Enthusiasts · Lombok Flyers contributed real‑life experiences and safe flying spots.
English Editors: Professional editors from the US, UK, and Australia reviewed grammar, style, and cultural nuances for an English‑speaking audience.
Final Approval: UAVwiki Southeast Asia Team, April 1, 2026.
• Documents needed: Passport (valid >6 months), Indonesia address (hotel), drone serial number, purchase receipt.
• SIDOPI Registration: Recommended for all drones, mandatory for those >250g. Free online registration via the DGCA SIDOPI portal. Instant certificate.
• Insurance: Not mandatory for recreational flights, but strongly recommended (drone loss / liability).
• Emergency contacts: Your embassy in Jakarta · DGCA hotline: +62-21-350-7000 · Tourist Police: 112.
Avoid fines up to $50,000 | SIDOPI registration | Temple no‑fly zones | 15 km airport buffer | Sub‑2kg no license required
📅 Last Updated: April 1, 2026 | 🌏 Audience: English‑speaking tourists visiting Indonesia | ⏱️ Reading Time: 20 minutes
Other destination guides: Thailand · Germany · the United States · Australia · New Zealand · Japan · Britain
🔥 Top Questions Tourists Ask About Drones in Indonesia
- Can I bring my drone to Bali? Yes, but you must follow Indonesian regulations: register drones >250g via SIDOPI, respect temple no‑fly zones, stay away from airports, and avoid crowds.
- Is it allowed to fly near Tanah Lot or Uluwatu Temple? Absolutely not. All temples are off‑limits. Flying over them is considered highly disrespectful and can lead to confrontation with locals and severe penalties.
- What about Ngurah Rai Airport (Denpasar)? There is a 15‑km no‑fly zone around the airport. This covers most of southern Bali, including Kuta, Seminyak, Jimbaran, and Nusa Dua.
- Do I need a license to fly a DJI Mini? No, sub‑250g drones are not required to register, but registration is recommended. All flight rules still apply.
1. Core Indonesia Drone Regulations 2026 (DGCA)
| Aspect | Official Requirement (DGCA) | Practical Tips for Tourists |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) | Follow CASR Part 107 and latest ministerial regulations . |
| SIDOPI Registration | Mandatory for drones >250g; recommended for all | Register online free at the SIDOPI portal. Instant certificate. Carry it (digital copy ok). |
| Weight Categories | Recreational flight without permit allowed for drones <2kg | Most consumer drones (DJI Mini, Air, Mavic series) are under 2kg – no permit needed for hobby flying. |
| Max Altitude | 150 meters (approx. 492 ft) above ground | Strictly enforce. Use the drone’s altitude limiter. |
| Airport Buffer | 15 km radius around all airports | Use AirMap or DJI Fly app to check location. Southern Bali is mostly within this zone. |
| Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) | Drone must remain visible at all times | Do not rely solely on FPV goggles. |
| Temples & Religious Sites | Strictly prohibited | Never fly over or near any temple. Respect local customs. |
| Military & Government Buildings | Absolute no‑fly zones | Presidential Palace, military bases, police stations are off‑limits. |
| Crowded Areas | No flying over crowds | Avoid popular beaches, markets, and events during busy hours. |
| Commercial Filming | Special permit + insurance required | If you are paid for footage or shooting professionally, you need a commercial license. |
| Penalties | Fines up to $50,000 USD, confiscation, possible deportation | Temple violations can lead to immediate confiscation and deportation. |
Infographic: Indonesia Drone Laws 2026 (Registration, Limits, No‑Fly Zones)
Bali is called the “Island of a Thousand Temples”. All temples (Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, Besakih, Tirta Empul, etc.) and their surroundings are strictly off‑limits for drones. In 2025, several tourists were confronted by locals near Tanah Lot after flying over the temple. Their drones were seized, and they faced deportation. Respect for religion is paramount in Indonesia – never risk flying near a temple [citation:1][citation:10].
Planning to capture breathtaking aerial footage of Bali’s sea temples, Ubud’s rice terraces, Lombok’s Mount Rinjani, or Komodo dragons? Indonesia’s drone regulations are becoming more standardized, but Bali’s cultural and religious sensitivities add extra restrictions. This guide, reviewed by Indonesian aviation lawyers and expat pilots, ensures you fly legally and avoid heavy fines or deportation.
2. Real Violation Cases (Tourists & Locals)
📌 Case 1: Tanah Lot Temple – Tourist confrontation & deportation (2025)
A Chinese tourist launched a drone over Tanah Lot Temple at sunset. Local villagers, considering it disrespectful to the sacred site, surrounded the tourist, demanded deletion of all footage, and seized the drone. The tourist was taken to the police station and ultimately deported and blacklisted from Indonesia.
📌 Case 2: Kuta Beach – Flying within airport 15‑km zone (2026)
A tourist launched a DJI Mavic 3 at Kuta Beach, unaware that the area lies within the 15‑km no‑fly zone of Ngurah Rai Airport. Local police intercepted the flight, confiscated the drone, and issued a fine of 5 million IDR (approx. $320 USD).
📌 Case 3: Ubud Rice Terraces – Unregistered drone warning (2025)
A traveler flew a DJI Mini 3 Pro over Tegallalang Rice Terraces. A local official checked the drone and found it was not registered in SIDOPI. The tourist received a warning and a 2 million IDR (approx. $130 USD) fine after completing the registration on‑site.
📌 Case 4: Nusa Penida – Drone lost to strong winds (2025)
A traveler launched a DJI Air 2S from the cliff at Kelingking Beach. Unexpected gusts swept the drone into the ocean. The traveler had no insurance and lost over $1,200.
📌 Case 5: Jakarta – Batteries confiscated at airport (2026)
A passenger placed three drone batteries in checked luggage at Soekarno‑Hatta Airport. Security detected them and confiscated all batteries, causing a near‑miss for the flight.
3. Pilot Experience from Indonesia’s Drone Community
4. SIDOPI Drone Registration Process (Online)
Steps for tourists (free, recommended for all drones, mandatory for >250g):
- 1. Access the SIDOPI portal: Go to https://sidopi.dephub.go.id/ (DGCA’s official registration system).
- 2. Create an account: Use your passport (valid >6 months) and an email address.
- 3. Register your drone: Enter the drone’s model, serial number, weight, and upload a photo showing the serial number.
- 4. Submit: The system generates a digital certificate instantly. Download and save it.
- 5. Carry the certificate: Keep a digital copy on your phone (or a printout) in case of inspection.
5. Indonesia No‑Fly Zones (City‑Specific Rules)
Map: Red areas are 15‑km airport buffers and permanent restrictions.
5.1 National Permanent No‑Fly Zones
- Airports: 15‑km radius around all airports.
- Military & Government Sites: Military bases, presidential palace, police stations.
- National Borders: Drones with cameras must stay at least 500 m from international borders [citation:3].
5.2 Bali‑Specific Restrictions (Cultural & Religious)
- All Temples: Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, Besakih, Tirta Empul, etc. – absolute no‑fly zones [citation:1][citation:10].
- During Ceremonies: Even areas that are usually allowed become off‑limits during religious processions. If you see a temple ceremony, land immediately [citation:1].
- Nyepi (Day of Silence): Entire island bans all activities, including drones, for 24 hours. Even the airport closes [citation:1].
5.3 City‑Specific Rules (Tourist Hotspots)
🏝️ Bali (South)
- Airport zone: 15‑km radius from Ngurah Rai Airport covers Kuta, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua – no flying there [citation:3][citation:7].
- Temples: All temples off‑limits (use far‑distance viewpoints).
- Ubud: Tegallalang rice terraces – avoid the central viewpoint; fly from outer edges with permission. Do not fly over residential areas [citation:1].
- Nusa Penida: Strong winds at cliffs; keep drone low and avoid crowds. No flying over temples [citation:7].
🏙️ Jakarta
- Virtually the entire city lies within the 15‑km zones of Soekarno‑Hatta (CGK) and Halim Perdanakusuma (HLP) airports – recreational flying is nearly impossible. Safe areas are far suburbs like BSD City, and even then, stay under 2kg and avoid residential zones [citation:9].
⛰️ Lombok
- Mount Rinjani: Must notify national park office before flying. Best from Senaru village, early morning.
- Southern beaches: Mawun, Tanjung Aan – avoid prayer times. Respect local customs.
- Airport zone: Lombok International Airport (LOP) has a 15‑km radius covering most of the south coast – check AirMap [citation:3].
🏛️ Yogyakarta
- Borobudur & Prambanan: Drones are strictly prohibited without special permits. Security is tight – do not attempt to fly [citation:9].
- Other areas: Similar to Jakarta, most of the city is within the 15‑km zone of Adisutjipto Airport (JOG).
🦎 Komodo National Park
- Drones require a special permit to avoid disturbing Komodo dragons. Contact park authorities well in advance [citation:3].
5.4 Recommended Safe Flying Locations
- Bali (East): Amed coast (far from airport), Tirta Gangga water palace outskirts, Virgin Beach (outside airport zone).
- Bali (North): Lovina Beach (early morning, away from dolphin‑watching boats).
- Lombok (North): Senaru village (Rinjani base) – with national park notification.
- Lombok (South): Mawun Beach (check prayer times).
- Other regions: Rural areas away from airports and temples (e.g., Flores, Sulawesi).
6. Pre‑Trip & Pre‑Flight Checklist
✅ Before Departure (2–4 weeks ahead)
- Check if your drone >250g – register via SIDOPI (free, instant).
- Download AirMap or DJI Fly and familiarize yourself with Indonesia’s airspace.
- Purchase drone insurance (recommended for loss/liability).
- Prepare fire‑proof bags for batteries.
- Save digital copies of passport, SIDOPI certificate, and hotel booking.
- Research temple locations and mark them as no‑fly on your map.
✅ After Arrival in Indonesia (Before Each Flight)
- Check the map (AirMap / DJI Fly) to confirm you are outside the 15‑km airport zone.
- Ensure you are not near any temple or ongoing ceremony.
- Do not exceed 150 m altitude.
- Keep the drone within visual line of sight.
- Avoid crowds and residential areas.
- Be aware of weather – afternoons in Bali often bring strong winds.
- If asked by authorities, show your passport and SIDOPI registration calmly.
7. Emergency: What to Do If You Violate the Rules
🆘 If Stopped by Police, Locals, or Park Rangers
- Stay calm and cooperate: Show your passport and SIDOPI certificate.
- Do not delete data: Deleting footage may be seen as hiding evidence.
- Possible penalties: Warnings, fines (up to 5 million IDR for minor infractions), confiscation, deportation for serious offenses (e.g., temple overflights).
- Contact your embassy: Request consular assistance immediately.
- Emergency numbers: Tourist Police: 112 · DGCA: +62-21-350-7000 · US Embassy Jakarta: +62-21-5083-1000 · UK Embassy: +62-21-2356-5200.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can tourists bring drones to Indonesia?
Yes. No special import permit needed for recreational use. Follow the DGCA rules: register >250g via SIDOPI, respect no‑fly zones, and avoid temples.
Where are drones absolutely banned in Bali?
① All temples and their surroundings; ② Within 15 km of Ngurah Rai Airport (most of southern Bali); ③ Military and government sites; ④ Crowded beaches; ⑤ Over private property without permission [citation:1][citation:10].
Does my DJI Mini (249g) need registration?
Registration is not strictly required for sub‑250g drones, but it is strongly recommended to avoid issues. Drones over 250g must be registered via SIDOPI [citation:6][citation:7].
Can I fly near Tanah Lot Temple?
No. You can take off from a far beach like Batu Belig and keep a safe distance, but never fly over the temple itself. Any flight over the temple is considered a serious offense [citation:1][citation:10].
What is Nyepi?
Nyepi is the Balinese Day of Silence. All activities are prohibited, including drone flights. Even the airport closes. Do not fly on Nyepi day [citation:1].
Can I fly at the Kuta or Seminyak beaches?
Most of Kuta and Seminyak are within 15 km of the airport, so flights are prohibited. Check AirMap; only very specific spots near the far ends might be outside the zone.
Do I need insurance for my drone in Indonesia?
Insurance is not mandatory for recreational flights, but it is highly recommended, especially when flying in windy coastal areas or over risky terrain [citation:3][citation:7].
Can I fly my drone in Komodo National Park?
Only with a special permit from the park authorities. Unauthorized flights can disturb Komodo dragons and result in heavy fines [citation:3].
What should I do if locals confront me for flying near a temple?
Land immediately, apologize sincerely, and delete any footage if they request. Do not argue; respect their religious beliefs. Contact your embassy if the situation escalates [citation:1].
How do I register my drone with SIDOPI?
Visit the SIDOPI portal, create an account, enter your drone’s details, and upload a photo of the serial number. You will receive an instant digital certificate – keep it on your phone.
Other destination guides: Thailand · Germany · the United States · Australia · New Zealand · Japan · Britain
📚 Official References
- Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Indonesia: https://dgca.kemenhub.go.id/
- SIDOPI Registration System: https://sidopi.dephub.go.id/
- Indonesian Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASR) Part 107
- Ngurah Rai Airport (Bali) Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP)
- Ministry of Transportation Regulation No. PM 90/2023 on Unmanned Aircraft Operations
📝 Changelog
- v1.0-en | April 1, 2026: English version released. Fully adapted to Indonesia’s drone laws with city‑specific rules for Bali, Jakarta, Lombok, Yogyakarta, Komodo National Park. Reviewed by native English‑speaking aviation experts and expat pilots.
⚠️ Legal Disclaimer
1. This guide is based on information from the Indonesian DGCA and other authorities as of April 2026. Regulations may change without notice. Always verify with official sources before flying.
2. We are not an Indonesian government agency. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal questions, consult a qualified aviation attorney.
3. Any flight activity based on this guide is at your own risk. UAVwiki and its experts assume no liability for fines, confiscation, or legal consequences.
4. This guide applies to recreational drone use. Commercial operations require additional permits.
Laws change frequently – always double‑check before flying. Temples are strictly off‑limits!
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Prepared by UAVwiki Southeast Asia Aviation Experts | Published April 1, 2026
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