The city warned that anyone who ignores the rule will “face strong action”, which can include confiscation of the aircraft and a fine of up to 5,000 yuan (about $1,050).

Beijing is the only Chinese metropolis that is banning drone possession outright. In other major cities the approach is limited to no‑fly zones around airports, military sites and government districts.

The ban was introduced after a small plane struck Beijing’s tallest building in June. Beijing’s government said the new measure is meant to “firmly strengthen the capital’s security defences”.

Many residents are already queuing at the buy‑back centres, but the sites usually pay back less than a quarter of what the buyer originally paid. Because of the low return, some owners are sending their drones to relatives in other provinces or even abroad, as one young man did by shipping his $2,000 drone to his sister in Sydney.

The restriction highlights the tension between public safety and a booming drone industry. While Beijing tightens control, other cities continue to allow drones to operate in designated zones, keeping the low‑altitude economy alive elsewhere in China.