Drone rules in the Netherlands

In an earlier post I described the most beautiful places in the Netherlands to fly the drone. I wrote here that flying is not allowed everywhere and your drone must meet a few requirements. In this post you will find the drone rules for the Netherlands.

First of all, it is important that your drone must be registered if it weighs 250 grams or more. The registration of a drone is done via the RDW. If your drone contains a camera, it must also be registered. In addition, you must obtain your pilot’s license for a drone that is heavier than 250 grams. This proof applies throughout the EU.

Drone flight risks

Drone flights are classified into risks. You have the following risks: low, medium and high.

Low risk

There is a low risk if:

• the drone (when taking off) weighs a maximum of 25 kilos
• you do not fly higher than 120 meters
• you do not transport dangerous goods
• you don’t drop anything from the drone
• you can always see the drone
• the drone stays at a safe distance from people

You must comply with the general rules for a pilot. You may only use drones with the CE mark C0 to C4. There are additional rules for drones up to 250 grams (Subcategory A1), drones up to 2 kilos (Subcategory A2) and drones up to 25 kilos (Subcategory A3). In addition, you are required to register your drone as explained above.

Medium risk

There is an average risk if:

• you fly closer to people and buildings than in the low-risk category
• you fly near aerodromes
• you fly a drone that weighs more than 25 kilos
• you fly within the inhabited environment
• you fly higher than 120 meters
• you drop something with your drone (e.g. when watering crops)
• you can’t see the drone directly

Your drone must be registered with the RDW (operator number). In addition to a pilot’s license, you must also be in possession of a certificate of skill. Before you fly, you must do a risk analysis.

High risk

There is a high risk if:

• you will fly above many people with a drone larger than 3 meters
• you are going to transport people (taxidrone)
• you are going to transport dangerous goods

The European rules for high risk are still being made. Until these rules are in place, you must apply for a license from the National Aviation Authority.

Flight ban in places

There are all kinds of different places where you are not allowed to fly your drone. We call these no-fly zones. These no-fly zones can be found, for example: on and around airports, prisons and in Natura 2000 areas. There are even more areas, the GoDrone app indicates exactly where you can and cannot fly. So check before you fly whether this is allowed!

In addition, it is important to use common sense before flying. Take a good look at the place where you are going to fly in advance for possible dangers!

More information can be found on the website of the national government.