Planning a drone shoot in Morocco requires early administrative checks. Requirements depend on the production, location, aircraft and operator, and rules can change. This article is a planning guide, not legal advice or flight clearance.
Understand the different approvals
A filming permit and permission to operate a drone address different matters. The Moroccan Cinematographic Centre (CCM) publishes procedures for productions that require filming authorization. Additional approvals may apply because of the location, aviation safety or local requirements. Importing a drone is another separate process: an import licence is not a filming permit or permission to fly.
Prepare the information authorities may request
Gather the production brief, dates, precise site coordinates, proposed schedule and flight area, aircraft details, operator information and safety plan. Confirm the exact documents and filing channel in the latest official instructions before submitting.
A practical preparation sequence
1. Check the filming requirements
Ask the CCM whether your production falls within a category requiring filming authorization. Morocco’s cinema legislation changed in 2025, so check the current procedure for your production category.
2. Confirm flight conditions separately
Contact the competent civil aviation authority and any authorities responsible for the location. Areas near airports, sensitive infrastructure, official sites or crowds may require additional review—or may not be suitable for flight.
3. Wait for written confirmation
Do not assume that filing an application or receiving filming approval clears the aircraft to fly. Keep written decisions and follow the approved dates, location and operating conditions precisely.
Frequently asked questions
Does CCM filming approval automatically permit a drone flight?
Not necessarily. Verify filming and flight permissions separately.
How long does approval take?
Timing depends on the authorities, location and application. Confirm the current official lead time and build in a buffer rather than relying on a general estimate.
Where can productions check official information?
Start with the CCM, the Official Bulletin / General Secretariat of Government and the Ministry of Industry and Trade for import formalities. Confirm flight rules with the competent aviation authority.