Can you fly your drone in Chile?
Whether you can fly depends on your drone, your registration and exactly where you fly. Here is what applies: key rules, no-fly zones and the official sources, in one place.
Regulator
DGAC Chile
Framework
DAN 91 (unpopulated areas) + DAN 151 (populated areas/commercial)
Pilot credential
RPAS Credential
KEY RULES
- DAN 91 (unpopulated areas, recreational): Drones weighing ≤750 g may fly up to 50 m above the tallest obstacle on private property without authorization
- DAN 151 (populated areas/professional use): Drones weighing more than 750 g require DGAC registration, a pilot's license, and an operational authorization
- Maximum authorized overall height: 130 m AGL (DAN 151) — varies by authorization
- Minimum distance of 2 km from airports and airfields
- Maximum distance of 500 m from the operator (maintain direct eye contact)
- Always keep the drone within direct line of sight (VLOS)
- Night flights require specific authorization from the DGAC
- DGAC Registration: make, model, serial number, maximum weight ≤9 kg for authorized use, 10×15 cm photo
- A pilot's license requires a written exam (minimum score of 75%) on DAN 151, DAN 91, meteorology, and aerodynamics
- Third-Party Liability Insurance (JAC-authorized) required for professional use
No-fly zones and restrictions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence or certificate to fly a drone in Chile?
In Chile, the credential to know about is RPAS Credential. Whether you need it depends on your drone's weight and how you fly — DGAC Chile runs the scheme, and the official sources below spell out exactly when it applies.
Can I fly a drone as a tourist or foreign visitor in Chile?
Yes for small drones: a drone up to 750 g may be flown recreationally in unpopulated areas up to 50 m without any permit, and this applies equally to visitors. Anything more — heavier drones, populated areas or paid work — requires DGAC registration, a credential and insurance, and applicants need a Chilean ID or RUT, which makes it impractical for a short visit. CONAF parks require separate permits. Rules for foreign pilots can change, so always double-check with DGAC Chile before you travel, and see the official sources below.
What are the most important drone rules in Chile?
The short version: DAN 91 (unpopulated areas, recreational): Drones weighing ≤750 g may fly up to 50 m above the tallest obstacle on private property without authorization. On top of that: DAN 151 (populated areas/professional use): Drones weighing more than 750 g require DGAC registration, a pilot's license, and an operational authorization. Also: Maximum authorized overall height: 130 m AGL (DAN 151) — varies by authorization. These are central aviation rules — location-specific airspace, land, nature, privacy and photography requirements can also apply in Chile, so always check the official sources.
Where am I not allowed to fly a drone in Chile?
What you need to avoid are the restricted zones — typically around airports, prisons, military areas and protected nature. You'll find the official map for Chile under Sources below, and the DroneKoll app keeps the country's rules, weather and checklists in one place before you fly.
Who regulates drone flying in Chile?
Drone flying in Chile is regulated by DGAC Chile, which handles both the rules and the airspace. Their official pages are linked under Sources below — that is where changes appear first.
Good to know
OFFICIAL SOURCES
- DGAC — Drone Operations (official website) Official website of the General Directorate of Civil Aviation on RPA/drone operations: requirements, registration, and regulations DAN 91 and DAN 151 dgac.gob.cl
- How to Operate a Drone in Chile? (DGAC) Official Step-by-Step Guide on How to Operate a Drone in Chile: Recreational vs. Professional Categories, Requirements Based on Weight and Area dgac.gob.cl
- AIP Chile — Aeronautical Information (IFIS) Chile's Official Aeronautical Information System: NOTAMs, prohibited/restricted/hazardous areas (ENR 5), charts, aerodromes aipchile.dgac.gob.cl
- RPA Registration Procedure (Official PDF) DGAC Official Procedure for New Registration and Regularization of Drones (RPA). Includes Appendix B and forms dgac.gob.cl
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
- DGAC Online Services DGAC Online Services Portal: Digital Aviation Procedures, Inquiries, and Services dgac.gob.cl
- DGAC Official Fee Schedule DGAC Official Fee Schedule for Drone Registration, Certification, and Operating Authorizations dgac.gob.cl
- Aviation Regulations (DAN) Access to the complete set of aviation regulations: DAN 91, DAN 151, and all provisions applicable to drones dgac.gob.cl
Always check the DGAC’s official sources before flying. This app is a tool, not a legal authority. Chile applies DAN 91 (unpopulated areas) and DAN 151 (populated areas)—the applicable regulations depend on the location and purpose of the flight.
The app
The whole picture, up to date — in your pocket
DroneKoll brings together the country's rules, weather, flight log and checklists — everything you need before you fly.
More in the app: Interactive zone map · Flight log · Planning & measuring · Pre-flight checklists
