UK Drone Rules 2026: The Short, Painful Version

You knew this couldn't last. From 1 January 2026, the UK's 'temporary' drone rules are being replaced with a permanent framework that is, predictably, less fun. If you've been enjoying the regulatory grey areas, it's time to pay attention. This is the short version, because we know you have the attention span of a goldfish on its third espresso.

The main takeaway? Weight is everything. Sub-250g drones remain the undisputed champions, still allowed to fly near people. That convenient 250g–500g loophole, however, has been politely shown the door. From 2026, if it's over 249g without a shiny new class marking, it's relegated to the cheap seats, far from civilisation. Oh, and your tiny 100g FPV quad with a camera now needs an Operator ID. More paperwork. You're welcome.

For the DIY and FPV crowd, your home-built masterpiece will never get a class marking. It's a 'legacy' drone now, like a classic car that isn't allowed in the city centre. This means you either get an A2 CofC to fly anywhere interesting, or you resign yourself to a life of spooking livestock in remote fields. Also, night flying now requires a green flashing light. Yes, specifically green. No, we don't know why.

This isn't forced obsolescence; it's just regulatory gravity. The future favours lighter drones and pilots who can be bothered to get qualified. If you enjoy the pain of knowing every tedious detail, you can read our full, soul-crushing breakdown right here. Don't say we didn't warn you.