Flying a Drone in Bali (2025 Guide): Rules, Permits, and Best Locations

Bali’s tropical landscapes are a dream for drone pilots — from terraced rice paddies to dramatic cliffs and secluded waterfalls. But before you launch your drone into the skies above the Island of the Gods, it’s essential to understand Indonesia’s drone laws, where you can legally fly, and when a permit is required.

This guide covers the latest 2025 drone regulations, including flying restrictions, permit processes, FPV rules, and even the best drones for use in Indonesia.

Are Drones Allowed in Bali?

Yes, flying drones is allowed in Bali — but with clear legal boundaries. Recreational users can fly without a license under specific conditions, while commercial or high-risk usage requires formal permits.

Drone operations in Indonesia fall under the jurisdiction of:

• Ministry of Transportation (Kementerian Perhubungan)
  
• Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA or DJPU)
  
• AirNav Indonesia
  
• TNI-AU (Air Force) for restricted airspace enforcement
  

The primary regulations include:

• Peraturan Menteri Perhubungan No. 37 Tahun 2020
  
• PM No. 90 Tahun 2015 on airspace zones
  
• CASR Part 107 (Civil Aviation Safety Regulation)
  

These rules apply across Indonesia, including Bali, and violations can result in hefty fines or legal penalties.

Drone Laws in Indonesia (Updated 2025)

Here’s what every drone operator in Bali needs to know:

Legal Classification by Weight

Operating Rules (General)

• Fly only during daylight hours
  
• Maximum altitude: 150 meters (500 ft) unless permitted
  
• Must remain within visual line of sight (VLOS)
  
• Stay 15 km away from airports
  
• Maintain 30 meters distance from crowds or vehicles
  
• Must be 18+ years old
  
• No flights under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  
• One drone per operator at a time
  
• Max speed: 161 km/h
  

Flying outside these boundaries — especially in prohibited or restricted zones — requires obtaining a license through SIDOPI-GO and SIPUDI systems.

Where You Can and Cannot Fly a Drone in Bali

Indonesia enforces airspace zoning, and Bali has a mix of drone-friendly areas and strict no-fly zones.

❌ Forbidden Zones (No Drone Flights Without Permit)

• Temples (e.g., Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, Besakih) – require prior permission; fees often apply
  
• Airports – Maintain a 15 km radius from Ngurah Rai International (Denpasar)
  
• Military zones and government buildings
  
• Urban centers and dense residential areas
  
• Controlled airspace above 150m without special permit
  

Flying in these zones without authorization may trigger radar detection (TNI-AU), resulting in drone seizure or forced takedown.

✅ Permitted Zones (With Caution)

• Beaches (e.g., Balangan, Bingin)
  
• Waterfalls (e.g., Suwat, Sekumpul)
  
• Rice terraces (e.g., Jatiluwih, Tegallalang)
  
• Rural coastlines and national parks (permit required for parks)
  

Always respect local privacy, especially near hotels, villas, or religious ceremonies.

How to Get a Drone Permit in Bali

You need a permit for:

• Flying above 150 meters
  
• Using drones commercially (weddings, media, surveying)
  
• Flying in restricted/prohibited airspace
  
• Operating drones over 25 kg
  

Permit Application Process:

1. Register via:
   
   • SIDOPI-GO – Drone operation & pilot approval
     
   • SIPUDI – Aircraft registration
     
2. Provide:
   
   • Personal ID and operator certificate
     
   • Drone registration details
     
   • Proposed flight plan with location and altitude
     
   • Proof of insurance for commercial flights
     
3. Wait for approval from:
   
   • Directorate General of Civil Aviation (hubud@dephub.go.id)
     
   • AirNav Indonesia (info@airnavindonesia.co.id)
     

Note: Permits are required even for one-time events like wedding shoots at temples or national parks.

FPV Drone Rules and Special Considerations

Indonesia has no separate laws for FPV (First Person View) drones, but general VLOS (visual line-of-sight) requirements still apply.

Key Rules:

• You must use a visual observer (co-pilot) to keep the drone in direct line-of-sight
  
• Night flying is strictly prohibited
  
• Flying from a moving vehicle is illegal
  
• FPV drones over 250g still require the same permits and altitude restrictions
  

Safety Tip: Always double-check interference risks and avoid busy rice fields or temple areas, where multiple drones may be in flight.

Tips for Safe & Legal Drone Flying in Bali

Flying legally in Bali isn’t just about following the rules—it’s also about protecting your gear and respecting the environment.

✅ Essential Safety Tips:

• Check the weather: Bali’s tropical climate changes quickly; avoid wind and sudden rain.
  
• Pre-flight inspection: Check propellers, battery levels, GPS lock, and return-to-home settings.
  
• Avoid local kites: Kite season (June–August) is huge in Bali; stay alert for kite lines near beaches and fields.
  
• Don’t leave batteries in hot cars: Extreme heat can deform or explode lithium-ion cells.
  
• Use a landing pad: Volcanic dust in Bali’s soil can damage drone motors and sensors.
  
• Respect privacy: Don’t fly over villas, hotel pools, or religious events unless invited.
  

Best Places to Fly a Drone in Bali (2025 Edition)

Looking for the most stunning drone shots in Bali? Here are locations that balance aesthetic value, airspace legality, and low foot traffic for safer flying.

Top 5 Drones to Buy in Indonesia for 2025

Want the right drone for your Bali adventures? Here are the best options available locally, selected for portability, camera quality, and regulatory fit.

Tip: If buying in Bali, check stores like Tutbayur Store, Digital 3, or Erafone, or order online via Shopee/Tokopedia. Rental? Try Bali Film Gear Rental for short stays.

Do You Need Drone Insurance in Bali?

Insurance Rules:

• Required if applying for a permit (e.g., for commercial work or restricted zones)
  
• Not mandatory for recreational flyers, but highly recommended
  

Why You Should Get It:

• Covers accidental damage, theft, or water loss
  
• Includes third-party liability if your drone injures someone or damages property
  
• Some policies offer global coverage, useful if you’re traveling around Southeast Asia
  

Pro tip: Insure both the drone and the payload (camera, gimbal, etc.) for full protection.

Final Thoughts: Responsible Drone Use in Bali

Flying a drone in Bali is a privilege, not a right. Respect local laws, avoid sensitive areas, and prioritize safety. With stunning scenery and cooperative skies, Bali offers a dream canvas for aerial storytelling—if flown responsibly.

Whether you’re a traveler, filmmaker, or surveyor, this guide ensures you’ll navigate Bali’s airspace with confidence, legality, and creativity.

Drone FAQs: Flying in Bali