UAV regulations in South Africa

Hobby pilots:

Can fly up to the height of the highest object in 300m of the drone, up to a max of 400 feet (RVLOS).
Can fly up to 500m away from the pilot, while maintaining direct line of sight (VLOS).
Can fly RPAS up to 7kg weight.
Need to keep more than 50m from people (lateral distance).
Need to keep more than 50m from roads (lateral distance).
Need to keep more than 50m from buildings (lateral distance).
Need to keep more than 10km from airports.
May only fly RPAS in daylight and clear weather conditions.
May not fly in No Fly Zones.
May not fly on any property without permission from the property owner
Do not need an RPL (Remote Pilots Licence).
Do not need to register their RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems) aircraft.
Do not need an aviation medical.

RPL pilot training (practical and theory training for RPAS in line with Part 101) and license.
Restricted Radio Licence (also known as Restricted Certificate of Radiotelephony – Aeronautical).
Aviation Medical Certificate (or complete the Medical self assessment form supplied after 1 July)
RPAS specifications, Flight Manual and Maintenance program from manufacturer.
Field Operations Manual (generated by the operator) – must include the following sections:
- Details of the operation
- Risk assessment
- SMS/ QMS Management Systems
- Weather forecast and any other useful info for the date of operation
- Permission for Aerial Work from Air Services Council and/or property owner/ landlord
Criminal record checks and background checks of all staff.
RPA registration (will be a registration number starting with ZT…)
RLA – RPA Letter of Approval.
ROC – RPAS Operating Certificate.
3rd party insurance of minimum 500 000 ZAR