In this blog post weāll share all law links and known rules about recreational and commercial drone use in Mauritius (Port Louis). Give a š at the end of this post if you enjoyed it & feel free to ask any questions or share your experience in the Mauritius Drone Discussion Group . Keep in mind that the content below is updated to the best of our ability & does not replace official sources & your own research.
Recreational vs commercial drone use in Mauritius
Mauritius differentiates commercial & recreational drone uses. However, both are subject to restrictions & a strict code of conduct. Additionally, depending on your drone's weight & your destination within the country, different rules will apply.
ā In Mauritius, drone laws falls under the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) & they can be contacted anytime via:
Email: civil-aviation@govmu.org
Phone: (+230) 603-2000
Can I bring my drone to Mauritius?
ā Currently, there doesn't seem to be any restrictions on bringing drones within Mauritius or at Port Louis Airport as long as your import is considered as legitimate (generally one drone per person).
šØ Be aware of the airline you purchase to travel as some main ones will only accept your drone on-board if its batteries are detached & placed in a firecase during travel time. Most airlines will have a battery voltage limit based on the recommendation of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). You can find more info about a specific airline here.
š” Smart! Get your drone batteries' firecase today and make sure you're complying with aviation safety rules.
Where can I fly my drone in Mauritius?
Mauritius drone fly map
ā We did not find an official fly zone map for drones in Mauritius "If you have more information about this, please share it in the Mauritius Drone Discussion Group". Thankfully in the meantime, app.airmap.io has listed all flight zones in a convenient way organised in a 3 colour legend.
šØ You should not fly above or near military installations & strategic infrastructure. Fly away from airports & any aerodromes or airports in the country. Do not fly over anyone and/or congested areas.
š¦ National parks & reserves might be on a case by case permission & you might need to check directly with the local park or reserve authorities.
š”If you wish to fly within a restricted or controlled space of the country island, you will need to complete the Application for the Operation of Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) in Mauritius Airspace Form available here. Note that there is a 25ā¬ fee per application š¤
š” Smart! Pack some spare drone batteries, you never know how close is the next power plug overseas. Also make sure you have a travel adaptor for Mauritius.
Recreational Drone Use in Mauritius
ā Good things first, you will not need to register or have a license to fly your drone in Mauritius as long as you do not fly within restricted or controlled airspace. This said, there rules while you're up there as you must fly:
a drone lighter than 7 kg & during day time only.
at a maximum altitude of 122 m & within sight at all times.
30 m away anyone during take off or landing
50 m away from property, vehicles, vessels, people & respect individuals' privacy.
150 m away from crowds (500+ people) or congested areas.
away from airports (any airport, seaplane base or area where aircraft or helicopter take off & land) & give way to all other type of aircraft.
without carrying any people, animals or objects with your drone.
away from areas where its use could interfere with police or first responders.
avoiding sensitive areas including government or military facilities.
Commercial Drone Use in Mauritius
ā First things first, to be eligible you will need to be:
at least 18 years young
submit an Operations Manual detailing flight procedures.
demonstrate theoretical & practical knowledge (this is usually done by having a license, š foreign licenses will be considered).
š” Smart! Heading to the coast? Water glare is a killer when flying above Mauritian coastal waters, make sure you have a lens filter before heading there.
šØ For commercial drone use in Mauritius, you will need to apply by seeking a permission from the Department of Civil Aviation using this form. You can find out the requirements in the Civil Aviation Act (link in other resources).
š¤ Note that obtaining a permit will cost you about 260ā¬ but be valid for 3 years from day of emission which gives you plenty of time to shoot the country's amazing landscapes š³
š” If you wish to contact someone onsite able to help you with commercial use, Mauritius published a list of their licensed operators which is regularly kept up to date here.
What do I risk for flying a drone illegally in Mauritius?
The amount & scope of the fine will depend on the nature & severity of your infraction. The judges will also evaluate if you intentionally committed the infraction and/or if you had any commercial purposes to do such.
Once you've got everything in order, you can start flying above Mauritius' awesome landscapes and create videos like this one:
ā Please leave a comment when you receive news and/or gain experience with your drone in the Mauritius! Have fun and safe flight! #mauritius #mauritian #regulation #rule #rules #law #laws #legislation
š” You're a local, have a question or want to share a travel experience? Head to our Mauritius Drone Discussion Group
Disclaimer: Although greatĀ care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information researched, we take no responsibility for any loss, harm or damage caused as a direct or indirect consequence of relying on this information. It is your responsibility to seek advice from qualified local & relevant authoritiesĀ for needed information about local drone regulations.
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