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Aerial landscape of Samet Nangshe Viewpoint overlooking Phang Nga Bay in Thailand

Drone Operations in Protected Natural Areas – Fly Responsibly, Protect Thailand’s Heritage.

Official emblem of Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP).

Drone flights in Thailand’s National Parks are highly regulated under the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP).

Learn how to fly responsibly, avoid violations, and apply for permits correctly to protect Thailand’s natural and cultural heritage.

Note: All flights in National Parks still require CAAT flight authorization before takeoff. Learn more in our CAAT Compliance Guide

  • Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai — highest mountain in Thailand, rich cloud forest ecosystems

  • Erawan National Park, Kanchanaburi — famous for tiered waterfalls and cave systems

  • Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani — ancient rainforest and limestone cliffs

  • Mu Ko Similan Marine Park, Phang Nga — renowned for coral reefs and diving sites

  • Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, Krabi — iconic coastal and island scenery

Flight permit applications are processed by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP).

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Step 1: Prepare your required documents:

  • Valid CAAT Pilot License and Drone Registration

  • Insurance Certificate (minimum liability of 1 million THB)

  • Passport or Thai ID copy

  • Flight plan and park location details

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Step 2: Submit to the National Park Office:

  • Each park manages applications individually.

  • High-sensitivity sites may be reviewed by DNP Headquarters.

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Step 3: Await Approval:

  • Processing time: 5–15 business days, depending on project type.

  • Filming, research, or large-scale projects may take longer.

Ensure your CAAT and NBTC registrations are complete before applying.

Even with CAAT approval, drone operations inside National Parks must also be authorized by the DNP:

  • Maximum altitude: 90 meters (AGL)

  • Maintain safe distance from wildlife and visitors

  • No flights during weekends, holidays, or peak visitation times

  • Night flights strictly prohibited in protected areas

For restricted airspace near protected zones, see the Controlled Airspace FAQ

Unauthorized drone use in National Parks is a criminal offense under Thai law — penalties include imprisonment or fines.

Penalties include:

  • Up to 5 years imprisonment

  • Fines up to 500,000 THB

  • Immediate confiscation of equipment

Always obtain proper authorization before operating a drone in any park zone.

Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park in Thailand, known for protected marine areas and island scenery.
Longtail boats on turquoise waters surrounded by limestone cliffs at Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park in Krabi, Thailand.

Download: Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park (PDF)

Phi Phi Islands The Phi Phi Islands, part of Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, are world-famous for their twin bays: Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay. These iconic views are popular for drone photography, but the entire area is a No-Fly Zone (NFZ) under Thai law.

Use these examples as a reference when preparing your application.

Aerial view of James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay, Thailand, featuring towering limestone karsts and turquoise water.
Drone view of a floating village in Phang Nga Bay National Park, Thailand, surrounded by limestone cliffs and coastal waters.

Download: Ao Phang Nga National Park (PDF)

Ao Phang Nga National Park Ao Phang Nga National Park, established in 1981, protects the dramatic limestone cliffs, caves, and emerald waters of Phang Nga Bay. The park spans over forty islands, each with unique landscapes and cultural heritage. Highlights include the towering cliffs of Khao Phing Kan and Ko Ta Pu (popularly known as James Bond Island), the lagoons and caves of Ko Hong, the twin islets of Ko Nom Sao, and the fishing community of the Koh Panyee floating village. These, together with many other islands and karst formations, make the park one of Thailand’s most iconic seascapes. As with other national parks in Thailand, any drone operation within the area requires prior approval from the Department of National Parks and relevant aviation authorities.

Scenic view of Similan Bay with the iconic Sailing Rock on Similan Island in the Andaman Sea, Thailand.
Colorful coral reef with tropical fish swimming in clear blue water in Thailand.

Download: Mu Ko Similan National Park  (PDF)

Mu Ko Similan National Park Mu Ko Similan National Park, established in 1982, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and diverse marine life. The park consists of eleven islands in the Andaman Sea, celebrated worldwide as one of the best destinations for scuba divers and snorkelers. Granite boulders, coral reefs, and abundant tropical fish make the Similans a premier site for underwater exploration and nature tourism. As with other national parks in Thailand, drone flights require prior approval from the Department of National Parks and aviation authorities.

Whale shark swimming underwater in the Similan Islands, Thailand.
National Geographic logo Thailand

"Recognized by leading travel authorities as one of the world’s top 10 dive destinations — with many sources attributing this ranking to the National Geographic Society. The Similan Islands offer unforgettable encounters with manta rays and whale sharks gliding around massive granite boulders, creating a truly spectacular underwater experience."

Woman on a long-tail boat viewing limestone mountains at Ratchaprapha Dam in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand.
Aerial view of floating bungalows on the emerald lake at Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani, Thailand.

Download: Khao Sok National Park  (PDF)

Khao Sok National Park Established in 1980, Khao Sok is one of Thailand’s most famous national parks, known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, dense rainforest, and Cheow Lan Lake with its floating raft houses. The park is home to elephants, hornbills, gibbons, and the rare Rafflesia flower. It offers eco-tourism, trekking, canoeing, and wildlife exploration in one of the world’s oldest evergreen rainforests.

Scenic waterfall flowing through a lush green forest in Thailand.
Aerial view of Thailand’s marine national park coral reef — suitable drone location for commercial filming and photography permits
Professional film crew with cameras inside a Thailand national park — DNP filming permit required for commercial production.
Aerial sunrise over limestone cliffs and rainforest in a southern Thailand national park — scenic drone location for filming
Professional cinema filming equipment inside a Thailand national park — DNP filming permit required for commercial and documentary shoots.

If your project involves filming, surveying, or research inside National Parks, you must apply through the DNP Film and Media Unit.

Required details include:

  • Project purpose, equipment list, and filming schedule

  • Local park consent letter

  • Crew information and insurance

Application Process

  • Step 1: Register and submit application online via the DNP permit portal or through the park office.

  • Step 2: Provide supporting documents (passport/company certificate, applicant ID, crew list, equipment list).

  • Step 3: DNP staff review and issue an approval or rejection.

  • Step 4: Pay applicable fees.

  • Step 5: Receive permit before filming.

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We assist production teams, survey missions, and tourism operators with DNP application review, document preparation, and coordination.

📩 Contact our Drone Compliance Support Team
For expert help preparing and submitting your National Park flight permit.

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Disclaimer 

Information provided is for general guidance only. Drone operators remain solely responsible for ensuring full compliance with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and the Department of National Parks (DNP) regulations before every flight.

Official Information: Professional Filming in National Parks

  • Do I need both CAAT and DNP approval?

Yes. CAAT covers airspace, DNP covers ground territory.

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  • Can tourists apply?

Yes, with valid CAAT registration or local agent assistance.

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  • How long is a DNP permit valid?

Usually for specific dates or project periods.

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  • What happens if I fly without permission? 

You risk heavy fines and confiscation.

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How to Request CAAT Flight Approval

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