Drone laws Barbados [March 2023] [Rules & How to Register]

While drones are great for aerial surveillance, taking high-definition videos and photos, or simply having fun, it’s important to make sure you don’t put people or things in unnecessary danger. This article is designed to give you some important information about drone laws in Barbados.

The laws surrounding Remote Controlled Drones in Barbados are incredibly strict, and without the proper permissions, can lead to severe punishments. Here we examine in depth what you need to know about drone laws in Barbados, including who needs permits and how to apply for them. We also cover drone registration and drone law enforcement here in this article.

Drone laws in Barbados. If you are planning to buy a drone in Barbados, then this article is only for you.

A Drone Is An Unmanned Aircraft System

A drone is an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) which may be remotely piloted, or it can fly autonomously based on pre-programmed flight plans. You will frequently see the term UAV, or unmanned aerial vehicle, used in place of drone.

Drones are also called UAS or UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles).

A Drone Is Classified As A Model Aircraft

In several countries, a drone that weighs less than 7kg is called a ‘model aircraft’. These are usually flown for recreational purposes, and are not considered as dangerous as larger drones. They usually have to be flown in designated areas, and do not need to be registered.

Drone Operators Must Obtain The Authority Of The Civil Aviation Department

You must contact the Civil Aviation Department in Barbados if you plan to operate a drone outside of the designated area they provide. They will determine the designated area and can also make special provisions for drone operations.

Barbadian operators of drones weighing more than 7 kilograms flying outside the designated area are to seek permission from the Civil Aviation Department. This is done by completing a form and submitting it in person or by post. The cost is $200 BBD per flight.

The application must include a plan of the proposed flight area, details about when and where you want to fly, and your contact information.

If your application is accepted, you will receive written authorization from the CAA that contains terms and conditions for your operation. This authorization specifies the permitted flight operation area, a start date, duration of authority (usually 1-2 weeks), and other restrictions specific to your operation.

You must reapply for permission each time you wish to fly in an area other than that designated in this document.

Drone Operators Are Required To Have Liability Insurance

The Civil Aviation Act of Barbados covers drones (or unmanned aircraft) among a host of other aviation-related topics. In the context of drones, the Act is silent on most of their use, but it sets out a few key requirements. For instance, drone operators are required to have liability insurance for third party risks arising out of the use of their drone.

A “third party risk” means a risk or damage that is not suffered by you or your business directly; rather, it would be an indirect consequence suffered by another person as a result of your actions.

For example, if you were operating your drone over Barbados and the wind picked up (or some other random event), causing your drone to crash into someone’s kitchen window and break it (a third party), then this rule would apply.

Note that there are likely many holes in this rule as written–for instance, what happens if you can’t get insurance?

What happens if you don’t fly over anyone else’s property? But since this law does exist and requires liability insurance for third party risks arising out of the use of one’s drone, we recommend having proper liability coverage in order to comply with these regulations.

Permission From The Barbados Port Authority

The owner of the land where you want to fly

• a national park or any other land owned by the Civil Aviation Department
• an airport

Please Follow These Rules

• You must get permission from the Civil Aviation Department to fly in Barbados.
• You must also get permission from the Barbados Port Authority if you are flying near Bridgetown.
• It is vital that you have insurance when operating a drone in Barbados, as failure to do so may result in your equipment being confiscated.
• Avoid flying over any beach area, densely populated areas, or any locations where people are gathered together as a crowd. Do not fly within 50m of any person or building.
• Stay away from the airport and aircraft at all times; there is a designated Drone Zone located at Paradise Beach, just outside Bridgetown.

How To Register Drone In Barbados

Obtain A “certificate Of Registration”

The next step is to get a “certificate of registration” from the Civil Aviation Department. You can contact them with any questions you might have about registering your drone by calling (246) 535-0700 or visiting their office at Seawell Airport, Christ Church, Barbados. It’s probably best not to try to register your drone by mail though.

Fill Out The Online Form

To register your drone in Barbados, you must first complete and submit the online application form. Once you’ve finished entering all of the requested information, press “Submit”.

The form can also be used for registering a pilot and registering an owner.

Pay The Fee Of Bds $45 For Each Individual Drone.

The fee of Bds $45 for each individual drone must be paid at the time of registration. This fee is non-refundable and it is payable to the Civil Aviation Department.

Applicants should note that if the drones are not registered in six months starting from 1st December, 2019, their drones will be classified as “non-compliant” and will have to be grounded.

Receive A Certificate

After completing the registration form, you will receive a certificate via email that’s required to be carried with you any time you fly. This certificate is not valid until you are notified via email that it is approved. Certificates are valid for three years. If you do not receive your certificate within 30 minutes of registering, contact the Civil Aviation Department.

You May Need An Additional Permit

• Topography and environment: Most of the island is flat, but there are a few places with lots of hills and cacti.
• Weather: The weather is hot and humid most of the year, but it occasionally snows (or rains) in March. It can get very windy in February. You’ll want to plan your flights for when it’s not too windy or rainy.
• Local laws: For most drone purposes, you will need a permit from the Barbados Civil Aviation Department (BCAD). You can apply for one here.

There are some other local laws you should be aware of as well. Drones must be flown at least 300 feet (100 metres) away from people and buildings, unless they have been given permission to fly closer.

They must also stay at least 500 feet (150 metres) away from airports or landing strips where airplanes are taking off or landing; otherwise they could crash into an airplane!

If you need to fly over private property then you must first ask permission from the owner before doing so; otherwise this would constitute trespassing!

Are Drones Allowed In Barbados?

Flying Drones In Barbados

As drone technology becomes increasingly more available, flying in Barbados is a growing hobby for thousands of enthusiasts.

Drones are also becoming popular tools for professional photographers and videographers. Farmers, search and rescue teams, scientists, militaries — all use drones for a variety of purposes that help make our lives safer and more convenient.

In Barbados, the National Council on Science and Technology provides advice to the government on science-related matters like drones.

The policy they have recommended says that the country should develop its own drone industry while regulating the operations of drones by both Panamanian citizens and foreign visitors to protect public safety and security.

Make Sure Your Drone Is Always Under Visual Line-of-sight

To ensure the safety of you and your surroundings, always keep your drone in sight. Fly only in good weather and avoid flying near people or other obstacles.

Where You Can Fly Your Drone In Barbados

You may fly your drone in public parks and spaces, but not in private places or national parks. You must keep them away from people (and you may not fly your drone over people). As long as you follow these rules, you can use your drone in Barbados.

If a private property owner asks you to leave the area, it’s best to do so. If the police ask you to stop flying your drone, do so immediately.

Follow The Rules Of Safely Flying A Drone In Barbados

Drones are legal in Barbados. You must register your drone and follow the rules of safely flying a drone in Barbados.

• Flying a drone as a hobbyist or recreational flyer:
• The drone must weigh less than 55 pounds.
• Do not fly higher than 400 feet.
• Respect everyone’s privacy. Do not fly over private property or people without permission.
• You can fly within 5 miles of an airport if you contact the airport and control tower before flying, but stay away from airplanes, helicopters, and runways.
• Flying a drone for commercial purposes:
• The drone must weigh less than 55 pounds (25 kilograms).
• You must contact the Barbados Civil Aviation Department to get permission to legally fly your drone commercially.

You Can Fly A Drone For Recreational Or Commercial Use In Barbados

You can fly a drone for recreational or commercial use in Barbados. However, whether you need to register your drone with the Barbados Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA) depends on its purpose and weight.

According to the BCAA, drones weighing 35 kg are classified as small unmanned aircraft systems (SUAS). These include multi-rotor and fixed-wing models. Whether you’re flying a drone at home or abroad, it’s important to be safe and responsible.

The rules for flying a drone are slightly different in Barbados than they are in other countries around the world. Here is what you should know about safely operating drones in this region:

Conclusion

Drone laws in Barbados touch on topics such as the use of model aircraft, agricultural, commercial and private use of drones, and exceptions for the use of drones. But don’t worry, the rules are pretty straightforward and easy to understand.

Once you familiarize yourself with these guidelines, you’ll be more than ready to fly safely and legally in your favorite place on earth.

Anyone that wants to own drones in Barbados MUST register them. That is the take away after speaking with police and aviation experts. This does not apply to all commercial UAV owners, who have separate registration procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions (drone Laws Barbados)

What Are The Drone Laws In Barbados?

In Barbados, the law is clear: drones are not allowed to fly over property that belongs to someone else without their permission.

The only exception to this rule is if you get permission from the owner of the property. It’s also important to note that it doesn’t matter whether or not you have a license for your drone; if it flies into someone else’s airspace without their permission, you will be in violation of local laws.

If your drone does accidentally enter another person’s space without their permission and causes damage or injury, then whoever was operating it could be held legally responsible for these damages as well as any injuries sustained by others because of their negligence.

Is There A Minimum Age For Flying Drones In Barbados?

Yes, there is a minimum age for flying drones in Barbados. According to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), you must be 16 years old before applying for a drone license.

To get your license, visit the CAA website and fill out an application form. Once you’ve submitted it along with your payment, it takes one week to receive your certificate by email. Be sure to bring this certificate with you when operating your drone so that police can confirm that you are indeed licensed!

If someone other than yourself uses your drone without permission or knowledge, they could face criminal charges under Section 5 of the Air Navigation Order 2010-17: “No Person shall operate any aircraft save in accordance with an airworthiness certificate issued by the Civil Aviation Authority.”

What Are Some Of The No-drone Zones In Barbados?

• National Parks and National Wildlife Sanctuaries
• Airports
• Military Bases

Can I Transport A Drone On A Commercial Flight To Barbados?

Yes, you can transport a drone on a commercial flight to Barbados. You will need to pack the drone in a hard case and check it in with your luggage.

The hard case must be large enough to fit not only your drone but also its accessories like propellers, batteries, etc.

What If My Drone Gets Lost Or Stolen While In Barbados?

If your drone is lost or stolen, you should contact the Civil Aviation Authority. If the Civil Aviation Authority does not have information about where your drone has been found, you can go to the police station closest to where it went missing. You will need to provide them with a copy of your purchase receipt and proof of residency in Barbados.