Operating a spaceport: rules and regulations

Regulations you must comply with when operating a spaceport.

We reviewed this page on 2 July 2026. It will be reviewed again on 2 January 2027. 

Apply for any licences you need to operate a spaceport.

It will take at least 9 months for your application to be assessed.

The Space Industry Act 2018 is the legal framework for spaceflight activities carried out in the UK.

The following regulations provide rules for implementing the act:

Identify which space launch licences you may need to support space launch.

Appoint a designated spectrum adviser to liaise with Ofcom. You can contact Ofcom by emailing [email protected] or submit spectrum enquiries.

This section outlines some of the regulations you must comply with when planning the spaceport location, layout, and facilities.

Ensure you have the right planning permission.

This section outlines some of the regulations you must follow to ensure you are compliant with safety and technical standards.

Ensuring risks are as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP)

If you use or store explosive materials, you must ensure you are compliant with the:

If you use ionising radiation, you must follow the:

If a radiation emergency is a possibility, you must prepare a consequence assessment and submit it to the relevant authority.

Transporting dangerous goods to and from the spaceport

If you transport dangerous goods, you must follow the:

You must also comply with all other relevant health and safety requirements.

As a spaceport licensee, you must be covered by insurance when conducting spaceflight activities at your spaceport.

Check the launch operator’s licence to ensure you are covered. If not, you’ll need to take out your own third-party liability insurance.