Flying a drone on Saona in 2026

Can you fly a drone on Saona Island in 2026?

Only within RAD 107: registered operator and drone, the drone always in sight, no restricted zones, and a permit near crowds.

IDAC's statement of 22 November 2025 lists the obligations of RAD 107: registration of the operator and of the drone, a prior permit for flights in urban areas or near crowds, respect for restricted zones and height limits, and keeping visual contact with the aircraft at all times.

The crowd rule is the one that bites on Saona. Guests report that the island fills with crowds by midday, and that is when most people want to launch. An empty stretch early in the day, with nobody under the flight path, is a different situation from a crowded beach at lunchtime.

Do tourists need to register a drone in the Dominican Republic?

Yes, the registration duties apply to anyone operating a drone. IDAC has said drones over 4.4 lb need a permit.

El Día reported IDAC's guidance that operating a drone heavier than 4.4 pounds (about 2 kg) requires a permit, and points to RAD 48 (registration and labelling), RAD 107 and RAD 20 (sanctions); the report dates from March 2023. Most folding camera drones weigh far less than that, but RAD 107 still lists registration of operator and drone among its duties.

The practical step: write to IDAC before you travel. The same report gives the contact route, the citizen service portal or [email protected]. Allow time for a reply.

Where are drones banned in the Dominican Republic?

Near airports and aerodromes, government and military sites, and anywhere IDAC declares a temporary restriction.

IDAC's list of restricted zones, as reported by El Día, starts with airports and aerodromes and runs through the National Palace, the Ministry of Defence, air and naval bases and other security sites. Punta Cana has an international airport, so stay out of the zone around it, no matter how tempting the coast looks.

IDAC also adds temporary bans. In July 2026 it barred unauthorised drones around the venues of the Central American and Caribbean Games, including Punta Cana, and warned that misuse "puede dar lugar a sanciones administrativas" (can lead to administrative penalties), Diario Libre reported.

Does the national park have its own drone rules?

Ask the Ministry of Environment, which manages Cotubanamá National Park, before you fly over the park.

Saona is part of Cotubanamá National Park, which the official tourism site calls the country's most important turtle-nesting site. The Ministry of Environment manages the park and is the body to ask about drones.

Use common sense around wildlife. Keep well clear of nesting beaches and of the turtle project at Mano Juan, and don't hover over the starfish pool, where people are standing in the water.

Can I fly a drone from a Saona tour boat?

Ask first. None of the eight tours on this site mentions drones in its listing, so the crew decides.

On a shared boat, your drone is everyone's business: a crowded deck is a poor launch pad, and the operator is responsible for its guests. Message the operator after booking and ask whether you can fly at a quiet stop.

A private boat from Bayahibe gives you the most say, since only your group is on board and you choose the stops. Even then, the RAD 107 rules travel with you. Our packing guide covers the rest of the kit, including keeping electronics dry on a speedboat.

Your group only on a boat from Bayahibe, with lunch, drinks and stops at your pace.

★ 5.0 · 6 to 8 hours · from $415

Explore the private Saona boat → Tour details

Frequently asked questions