Drunk Droning is Now Illegal in Japan
If you’re planning to do any drone photography in Japan, make sure you stay away from alcohol. The country has just outlawed drunk droning, making it an offense that’s punishable by up to a year in prison.
If you’re caught flying drunk and your drone weighs over 7 ounces (200g), you could be fined up to $2,750 (¥300,000) and face some harsh time behind bars.
“We believe operating drones after consuming alcohol is as serious as (drink) driving,” a Japanese transport ministry official tells AFP.
Japan’s other drone regulations include flying below 150m (492ft), stay away from airports/crowds, flying during the day, and keeping the drone in sight at all times — failure to follow any of these guidelines could earn you a hefty fine of up to ¥500,000 (~$4,600).
So when visiting the “Land of the Rising Sun,” just remember: don’t drink and drone, or always have a designated droner.
