Japan Expands Drone No-Fly Zones to 1km — 2026 Amendment Enacted
Three Major Changes
| Item | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow Zone radius | ~300m around critical facilities | ~1,000m around critical facilities |
| Yellow Zone penalty | Penalty only after ignoring police order | Direct criminal penalty (no warning) Up to 6 months’ imprisonment or ¥500,000 fine |
| Designated facilities | Diet, PM’s Office, Imperial Palace, defense sites, nuclear plants, airports | Same (additional facilities may be designated by Cabinet Order) |
1. Distance Expansion: 300m → 1,000m
The “Yellow Zone” surrounding critical national facilities — the National Diet, Prime Minister’s Office, Imperial Palace, nuclear power plants, defense installations, and designated airports — expands from approximately 300 metres to approximately 1,000 metres. This is an amendment to the Small UAS Prohibition Act (Act No. 9 of 2016).
In central Tokyo, the 1km zones around the Imperial Palace, National Diet, Prime Minister’s Office, and foreign embassies will overlap, creating a large contiguous no-fly area.
2. Direct Criminalisation: No More Warnings
Previously, flying in the Yellow Zone triggered a police evacuation order first; penalties applied only if you refused. After this amendment, flying in the Yellow Zone without authorisation is immediately criminal. Penalty: up to 6 months’ imprisonment or a fine of up to ¥500,000.
The Red Zone (facility premises) remains unchanged: up to 1 year’s imprisonment or ¥500,000 fine, with direct criminalisation already in effect.
3. Potential Facility Expansion
Additional facilities may be designated by Cabinet Order after enforcement. Monitor updates from the National Police Agency.
When Does It Take Effect?
Note: Operational details (measurement standards, updated facility lists) have not yet been issued by the National Police Agency. This article will be updated once enforcement regulations are finalised.
Japan’s “Six Drone Laws”
The Small UAS Prohibition Act is one of six laws that simultaneously govern drone operations in Japan. Compliance with one does not excuse non-compliance with any other:
- Aviation Act (MLIT) — Registration, permits, pilot certification
- Small UAS Prohibition Act (NPA) — No-fly zones around critical facilities (this amendment)
- Radio Act (MIC) — Frequency licensing
- Civil Code (MOJ) — Airspace rights, tort liability
- APPI (PPC) — Data protection for aerial footage
- Road Traffic Act (NPA) — Road-based take-off and landing
⚡ Drone Compliance Guide: Japan
All six drone laws explained article-by-article. Supervised by a licensed Gyoseishoshi.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When exactly does the new rule take effect?
20 days after promulgation in the Official Gazette. Early July 2026 is the most likely window, but the exact date will be confirmed upon publication.
Q. Does this affect my Aviation Act flight permit?
The Small UAS Prohibition Act (NPA) is separate from the Aviation Act (MLIT). Even with an MLIT flight permit, you must independently comply with the Prohibition Act. If your flight area falls within the new 1km Yellow Zone, you need the facility manager’s consent and must notify the prefectural public safety commission at least 48 hours in advance.
Q. Are toy drones (under 100g) affected?
Yes. Unlike the Aviation Act (which applies to drones 100g and above), the Small UAS Prohibition Act applies to all drone sizes, including sub-100g toys.
Is Your Flight Area Safe?
Q. What should I do right now?
Check JAPAN SKY MAP to see if any of your regular flight areas fall within 1km of a critical facility, and plan accordingly before the enforcement date.