Łukašenka signs into law a ban on unauthorized possession of UAVs

October 20, Pozirk. Belarus has criminalized the unauthorized possession and use of drones, under amendments signed into law today.

Unauthorized import, storage, sale, operation and manufacture of civil UAVs and model aircraft will entail criminal prosecution if someone is caught doing it for the second time within a year. The charge carries punishment ranging from community service to up to two years in prison.

If someone is caught importing, possessing, selling, operating or manufacturing civilian drones without permission for the first time, they will face punishment under the Code of Administrative Offenses, Alaksandar Łukašenka’s press office reported.

The Belarusian ruler signed the bill into law today to “strengthen the protection of Belarus’ airspace.” Its main provisions will come into force 10 days after its official publication.

The National Assembly’s House of Representatives approved the bill at the second reading on September 16.

MPs vote to criminalize unauthorized possession of drones