Understanding drone laws as experts warn of growing misuse

A legal expert warns that the misuse of drones can result in criminal prosecution, coupled with heavy penalties.

As drones become an increasingly familiar sight over suburbs, sporting events and public spaces, aviation experts are warning that casual or careless use is pushing more operators into illegal territory — with real legal consequences.

The issue came into sharp focus during this year’s Comrades Marathon, where police declared the full 86km route a strict “no-fly zone” and warned that unauthorised drones would be “taken down operationally”. SAPS also said countermeasures would be used to disable drones, underscoring the seriousness with which authorities are treating airspace breaches.

The Comrades Marathon Association backed the restriction, citing aviation law, safety concerns and the risk of interference with emergency response teams along the route.

Cor van Deventer, director at Van Deventer Dowlath and Marx Incorporated, says the scale of the warning reflects a wider national problem.