Written by Muhammad Thahir · Sources checked 6 October 2026
Under Sri Lanka’s drone rules, visitors may fly a drone only after getting approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL). Apply through its online drone approval system before you fly. Check the restricted and archaeological area maps, and carry third-party insurance if your drone weighs more than 250 g.
This summary is based on the CAASL drones page, last updated 29 September 2026. Drone rules change, so confirm the current requirements before you travel.
Can tourists fly drones in Sri Lanka?
Yes, with approval. CAASL states that tourists bringing a drone for temporary use do not need to follow the import process for permanent imports. Instead, visitors submit a request for flying approval through the CAASL online drone approval system.
Flying without approval risks having the drone seized and legal trouble. That can end a shoot and disrupt the rest of a trip.
How to get drone approval as a visitor
Check where you want to fly
Use the CAASL restricted-area and archaeological-area maps in the online system. Airports, military areas and many heritage sites are marked.
Apply online before the trip
Submit your drone details, flight locations and dates through the approval system. Apply well ahead, because you cannot rely on same-day approval.
Arrange third-party insurance
Get cover that meets the minimum for your drone’s weight category, shown in the table below.
Carry your approval
Keep the approval and insurance documents on your phone and on paper. Show them if police, site staff or hotel security ask.
Insurance requirements by drone weight
CAASL requires third-party insurance for unmanned aircraft above 0.25 kg maximum take-off weight. The minimum cover is set by weight category:
| Category | Maximum take-off weight | Minimum third-party cover |
|---|---|---|
| A | 0.25 kg or below | Not required |
| B | Above 0.25 kg up to 0.9 kg | LKR 100,000 |
| C | Above 0.9 kg up to 4 kg | LKR 400,000 |
| D | Above 4 kg up to 15 kg | LKR 1,500,000 |
Most compact travel drones fall in category A or B. Check your exact model’s take-off weight, including any extra battery or accessories.
Where you should not fly
- Military and government sites: the UK government’s Sri Lanka travel advice says not to fly drones near military bases, government buildings or VIP vehicles.
- Airports and restricted airspace: marked on the CAASL maps.
- Archaeological and heritage sites: places such as Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura sit in protected areas. Do not fly there unless your approval specifically covers the site.
- National parks: assume drones are not allowed without written permission from the Department of Wildlife Conservation. Drones also disturb wildlife.
- Temples and crowds: flying over worshippers or religious ceremonies is disrespectful even where airspace is open.
Practical tips for flying in Sri Lanka
- Ask hotels and landowners before taking off from their property.
- Fly in the early morning, when winds are lighter and fewer people are around.
- Coastal winds can be strong, especially on monsoon-affected coasts. Check conditions first.
- If your drone is involved in an accident causing serious injury, inform local police and CAASL immediately.
- If you are filming for a client or brand, say so when you apply. Commercial work can need more approvals.
Planning a shoot route? Our guides to Sri Lanka’s most photogenic places and temple etiquette cover the ground-level rules too. Creators may also want to read about Sri Lanka Tourism’s influencer programme.
Filming across Sri Lanka?
A private driver can plan early starts, carry equipment and help you reach locations at the right time of day.
Drone questions
Do I need a permit to fly a drone in Sri Lanka as a tourist?
Yes. Visitors must request flying approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka through its online drone approval system before flying. Tourists bringing a drone for temporary use do not need to follow the separate import process for permanent imports.
Do small drones under 250 g need insurance in Sri Lanka?
CAASL does not require third-party insurance for drones of 0.25 kg or less. Drones above that weight need minimum third-party cover, starting at LKR 100,000 for drones up to 0.9 kg. You still need flying approval whatever the weight.
Can I fly a drone at Sigiriya or in national parks?
Do not fly at Sigiriya, other archaeological sites or national parks unless your approval specifically covers the location. Heritage areas are marked on the CAASL maps, and national parks need permission from the Department of Wildlife Conservation.
Where is it illegal to fly a drone in Sri Lanka?
Never fly near military bases, government buildings, VIP vehicles, airports or other restricted airspace. Check the CAASL restricted-area map before every flight, because restricted zones are not always signposted on the ground.
Plan a trip around your shoot
Tell us your locations, dates and equipment. Use our tailor-made holiday enquiry and we will plan a route with realistic timings. You remain responsible for your own drone approval.
