Flying a drone on Harbour Island can be a fantastic way to capture the island’s iconic pink sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant local scenes—but there are strict rules and processes you need to follow before launching. Many visitors are unaware that drone use in The Bahamas is regulated under national aviation law, and Harbour Island is no exception.
All drones weighing over 249 grams must be registered with the Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority (CAA-B), regardless of whether they are used for recreational or commercial purposes. Registration is mandatory and must be completed before any drone activity. You can find detailed guidance in their official Drone Permit notice.
In addition to registration, you’ll need to apply for a special permit through the Bahamas Film and Television Commission. This applies even for casual use like filming your hotel, beachfront, or boat tour. The permit process requires that you submit flight details such as intended dates, purposes, and specific locations—be sure to select “Eleuthera and Harbour Island” as your operating area. Fees typically include $80 per drone, along with $80 per location per day. Without this official approval, drone flying is considered illegal, and penalties can be severe.
Understanding Drone Rules Harbour Island is key to ensuring you stay compliant and avoid any trouble with authorities. For example, drones must be operated only during daylight hours and always within your visual line of sight. Altitude restrictions are generally set to a maximum of 400 feet, though some guidance suggests staying under 200 feet as an extra safety measure. Your drone must also support geofencing technology to prevent it from entering no-fly zones such as airports, military areas, or other restricted airspace. Flying near or over crowds, private homes, or buildings without consent is strictly prohibited, and you must always maintain at least 50 feet of distance from people, vehicles, or structures.
Failure to comply with these Drone Rules Harbour Island can result in fines as high as $5,000 USD and the potential confiscation of your equipment. That’s why it’s essential to plan ahead and complete the necessary paperwork before you arrive. Permit requests should be submitted at least two weeks in advance, particularly if you’re visiting during peak season. Many applications will also require proof of liability insurance with coverage of at least one million dollars, especially for commercial projects.
For those looking for trustworthy and current Harbour Island Info, the best course is to consult official sources such as the Civil Aviation Authority and the Bahamas Film and Television Commission. These platforms offer the most accurate and updated information regarding drone policies, application procedures, and safe flying zones on the island. In addition to compliance, proper preparation ensures that you can capture the stunning scenery of Harbour Island legally, safely, and without disruption to others.
Using a drone here is possible—and the results can be spectacular—but only when you follow the correct protocol. Whether you're a filmmaker or simply an adventurous traveler hoping to get aerial shots of your trip, respecting the local laws and using verified Harbour Island Info will help you avoid setbacks and enjoy the experience to its fullest.
