[Important] The no-fly zones for drones and other aircraft in Japan have been expanded.

To those flying drones in Japan: Flight restrictions around important facilities

On July 14, 2026, an amended law prohibiting the flight of small unmanned aircraft came into effect, expanding the no-fly zones for drones and similar aircraft around important national facilities, foreign embassies, defense-related facilities, airports, nuclear power plants, and other similar facilities. The area around these facilities has been expanded from approximately 300m to approximately 1,000m.

Main changes

The no-fly zone has been expanded to approximately 1,000m.

In principle, drones and similar aircraft cannot be flown within the grounds and areas of the designated important facilities, or within approximately 1,000 meters of the surrounding airspace.

Drones weighing less than 100g are also included.

This law regulates not only typical drones, but also aircraft weighing less than 100g, as well as radio-controlled airplanes.

Prior procedures are required if you plan to fly.

Even in exceptional cases where flight is permitted, you must obtain the consent of the facility manager, etc., and, in principle, notify the prefectural public safety commission through the police station with jurisdiction at least 48 hours before the start of the flight. You can also notify the police online through the e-Gov electronic application service.

In areas including sea areas, defense-related facilities, and airports, it may be necessary to report incidents to the Japan Coast Guard, facility managers, etc., in addition to reporting to the police.

Please check before flying your drone.

Before flying a drone or similar device, please check the following points.

- Does the flight location fall within a no-fly zone around important facilities?

Is it necessary to obtain the consent of the facility manager or to notify the police in advance?

- Does it violate aviation laws or any rules specific to the local government or facility?

Violators may be subject to penalties such as imprisonment or fines.

Detailed information

For detailed information on regulations, target facilities, no-fly zones, and necessary procedures, please refer to the National Police Agency's official website and leaflets.

National Police Agency | Regarding the Act on Prohibition of Flights of Small Unmanned Aircraft, etc.

English leaflet (PDF)

Simplified Chinese leaflet (PDF)

Korean leaflet (PDF)

*This page provides an overview of flight regulations for drones and similar aircraft. Regulations and target areas may change. When actually flying, be sure to check the latest information from the National Police Agency, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, and related organizations.