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Legal vs Illegal Drone Operators — What Clients Must Know
Hiring a drone operator isn't just about gear or skill — it's about legality and liability. Most clients don't realize that having a drone license (RPL) alone means nothing without a proper UASOC/ROC. Here's why that distinction matters.
The Misconception - THE MYTHS & LIES
1- Many drone operators proudly advertise their Remote Pilot License (RPL) — and while that's required, it's only a license to fly. It does NOT grant the legal right to conduct commercial operations if they dont belong to a UASOC/ROC.
2- My drone only weights 249gramss, the laws dont apply to me. This is true only Overseas in the USA for FAA. It does NOT grant the legal right to conduct commercial operations in South Arica.
3-We are an overseas film/company and have our own drone & pilot. N0-INTERNATION DRONE PILOTS MAY NOT FLY IN SA You must hire a local Pilot form a operator with a UASOC/ROC Cerificate. Or face Fines from R10k to R50k per person can be fined. The Land owner, The DOP, the Pilot etc... This is not limited to possible criminal charges on your international travel Passport!
What Makes a Drone Operation Legal?
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UASOC/ROC: A valid Remote Operator Certificate issued by SACAA allows legal commercial drone activity, and Pilot & Craft must be on the OpSpec.
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Operating Specifications: Official document listing specific aircraft, pilot names, and areas of operation, Floight folios must accompany every flight +14 to 25 documents.
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Insurance & Compliance: Only ROC-certified operators can carry legal drone liability insurance. - So Cover your Brand/Name and ask for all these docs.
Red Flags for Clients
If you're hiring drone services, always ask for:
- 📄 A copy of the company's UASOC/ROC document
- ✅ Your pilot's name listed on the ROC's approved operators
- ✈️ The drone's registration number listed on the ROC operations spec
If they cannot provide this, you are working with an illegal operator — and YOU may WILL liable in case of incident, from R10-R50k and legal remifications, plus bad press!
All Drone Pilots Cape Town, are from full legal UASOC/ROC operators — with listed pilots, aircraft, and a spotless flight record. Don't settle for "licensed" — demand legal.
Riaan Huysamen
CAA Certified Drone Pilot & Qualified Drone Flight Instructor