I’ll have my DJI Mini drone in my bag but don’t plan to fly it in Belize. I know Belize has strict drone regulations, but my main concern is whether customs or immigration might confiscate it during bag searches—especially when traveling by boat or bus.
Since I don’t have a safe place to leave it in Chetumal, I’d love to hear from anyone with real-world experience on how strictly this is enforced.
Ray said:
Have you tried emailing Belize customs? That seems like the most straightforward way to get a clear answer.
I could, but I suspect they’d just tell me not to bring it unless I have the proper permit, which is already outlined in the official Belize aviation guidelines here. I’m more curious about how strictly this is enforced in practice. Has anyone had actual experience with this?
How would immigration know whether you plan to fly it or not? Unless you’re just passing through on a layover, getting the permit seems like the safest bet.
Zion said:
How would immigration know whether you plan to fly it or not? Unless you’re just passing through on a layover, getting the permit seems like the safest bet.
Fair point, but the permit process requires ‘a letter of request/intent from a business or organization commissioning the drone services in Belize.’
That’s not really an option for a personal drone owner like me.
@Mal
Damn. In that case, I’d consider rolling the dice lol… the Mini isn’t crazy expensive if they take it. Just keep your batteries and memory card separate, just in case.
Belize has strict regulations against bringing drones into the country, even if you don’t plan to fly it.
The Belize Department of Civil Aviation prohibits the temporary importation of drones for personal or recreational use. Travelers have reported that customs officials confiscate drones upon entry, holding them until departure. Given how strictly these rules are enforced, you should leave your drone in Chetumal to avoid any trouble.