Drone Rules for Centro Comercial Aricanduva
Fly Status: Strictly Prohibited / Highly Restricted. Shopping Aricanduva is located in a densely populated urban area of São Paulo. Operating a drone in this environment—especially over a large commercial complex—is subject to rigorous federal and municipal restrictions.
Explanation Operating drones in urban areas like Aricanduva is governed by the new ICA 100-40 (effective July 2026), which treats all drones as aircraft. Shopping malls are private properties with high foot traffic, and the surrounding area includes major roadways and residential zones, making them sensitive sites for unmanned aviation.
Core Requirements for 2026 (Brazil):
Mandatory SARPAS NG: As of July 2026, all drones (regardless of weight, including those under 250g) require an approved flight plan via the SARPAS NG portal to access the Brazilian airspace.
Privacy & Property: Under the Civil Code (Art. 1.277 and 1.336), you cannot use a drone to invade the privacy of others or disturb the peace. Filming the interior of the mall or private property without consent is illegal.
Safety Buffer: You must maintain a minimum horizontal distance of 30 meters from any person not involved in the flight (unless they are "anuentes"—aware of and consenting to the flight).
Prohibitions: You are strictly forbidden from flying over crowds or gatherings, which is almost constant at a shopping center of this size.
How to be "Socially Accepted" and Lawful Do Not Fly at the Mall: Shopping malls are private spaces. Even if you obtain federal airspace clearance (SARPAS), you must have the explicit consent of the mall administration. Unauthorized flights are frequently reported to security.
Use Official Tools: Always verify your specific location on the SARPAS NG map. If the area is designated as "red" or restricted, the system will not grant an automatic permit.
Respect Privacy: Drone noise and presence are considered a nuisance in residential and commercial areas. Flying in public urban spaces often leads to complaints to the police or municipal guards.
Join a Club: The only way to operate freely and legally in the São Paulo region is to join a federated aeromodelling club recognized by COBRA (Confederação Brasileira de Aeromodelismo). These clubs have designated "safe zones" away from crowds and urban hazards.