UCAA — Unmanned Aircraft Systems Regulations 2022Uganda classifies drones into three risk categories (A, B, C) under UCAA's UAS Regulations 2022. Category B, typical for recreational drones up to 5 kg, has a 400-foot altitude ceiling; Category A (very small drones) is limited to just 30 feet.
Max altitude
122 m
400 feet (122 m) for Category B (standard, drones up to 5 kg — the most relevant for recreational/tourist use). Category A (basic) is limited to just 30 feet (10 m), within 200 m of the control station, daytime only (6am-6pm), max speed 20 km/h. Category C (complex) allows beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) flight but requires a UAS Operator Certificate.
Operator registration
Yes, required
Importing/operating requires a clearance process with a fee of UShs 250,000 + 18% VAT, paid at UCAA's Entebbe offices, with a security check involving the Chief of Defence Forces' Tripartite Committee.
Pilot license
Depends on the case
No separate certificate for Categories A and B; Category C instead requires a UAS Operator Certificate.
Insurance
Recommended / conditional
Mandatory third-party liability insurance for Categories B and C; the certificate must be carried during flight.
Zones to avoid
Minimum distance of 50 m from people/buildings/vehicles/public roads (Categories A and B). Forbidden within 4 km of an airport without authorization.
What isn't 100% confirmed yet
Data verified against the full text of the Civil Aviation (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Regulations, 2022 (68 pages) and the UCAA-AC-UAS001 Advisory Circular on the clearance procedure, both published by UCAA.
Verify officially before flying
Source: UCAA — Uganda Civil Aviation Authority
Last checked: 2026-08
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Informational content, not legal advice. Zones and rules change constantly: always check the country's official website before every flight.
