China is imposing a sweeping ban on drone sales and requiring permits for all flights in Beijing under new security regulations taking effect Friday, as authorities move to tighten control over low-altitude airspace in the capital of 22 million people. The measures, approved by Beijing municipal authorities, prohibit the sale, rental, import, and storage of consumer drones within the capital as part of tighter control over low-altitude airspace, according to the BBC.. Beijing official Xiong Jinghua said: “As the capital, Beijing faces more challenges in low-altitude airspace safety, making it

China is imposing a sweeping ban on drone sales and requiring permits for all flights in Beijing under new security regulations taking effect Friday, as authorities move to tighten control over low-altitude airspace in the capital of 22 million people.

The measures, approved by Beijing municipal authorities, prohibit the sale, rental, import, and storage of consumer drones within the capital as part of tighter control over low-altitude airspace, according to the BBC..

Beijing official Xiong Jinghua said: “As the capital, Beijing faces more challenges in low-altitude airspace safety, making it more urgent to strengthen the management of UAVs.”

The rules introduce penalties for violations, including fines of up to 10,000 yuan ($1,463) for illegal drone flights. Individuals and organizations found selling drones or key components may also face penalties, including confiscation, according to AFP reporting.

Existing drone users will be given a three-month grace period after the rules take effect to register their devices with local police stations, News Central TV reported.

The regulations also limit private ownership within the city, including restrictions that allow no more than three drones per location inside Beijing’s Sixth Ring Road unless special approval is granted.

The measures come as China continues to expand oversight of unmanned aerial vehicles, which are widely used for commercial, industrial, and recreational purposes but also raise security concerns in densely populated urban areas.

The new restrictions could also affect the domestic drone industry, including Shenzhen-based DJI, the world’s largest drone maker. DJI has already faced U.S. sanctions over security concerns and now faces tighter operating conditions in its home market, including Beijing’s capital region.

A little more informed. A little more connected.