Beijing, China – Starting November 15, 2026, the Chinese capital, Beijing, will begin enforcing a ban on the possession and storage of all unmanned aerial vehicles, known as drones, throughout the city, according to new regulations reported by the Vietnam website.
A complete ban on possession and storage
The new regulations stipulate a ban on the possession of drones or their basic components, whether by individuals or companies, with penalties imposed on violators and confiscation of the equipment involved in the violation.
The decision comes as Beijing tightens regulations on drones, after authorities had already banned the sale of these devices in the capital since May 2026, in addition to requiring owners to register using their real names.
Deadline for equipment disposal
The Beijing government has announced policies to help residents get rid of drones and related equipment before the ban takes effect on November 15.
Under the announced procedures, owners of this equipment will be able to go to specific locations to resell it or hand it over for destruction in exchange for financial assistance, and they can also transport it out of the capital themselves.
Authorities are also allowing aircraft and equipment to be sent to other provinces via postal services, providing multiple options for owners before the ban takes effect.
Stricter restrictions in the capital
The new measures come at a time when other regions within China allow the use of drones in open spaces, provided they are legally registered, while Beijing is moving towards implementing a stricter framework within the capital’s borders.
The ban includes the possession and storage of drones and their basic components, making Beijing one of the strictest regions in China in regulating the ownership of this equipment.
The current measures give residents until November 15 to regularize their situation and dispose of equipment in the ways specified by the authorities, before penalties are applied and non-compliant equipment is confiscated.
