Since May 2026, the Icelandic Nature Conservation Agency (Náttúruverndarstofnun) has significantly tightened the rules for flying drones in Iceland. In many nature reserves, it is no longer possible to fly as a recreational drone pilot, or there is a seasonal ban on drones. Professional drone pilots have the option to apply for a permit.
Specifically, this means:
- Permits are available for professional drone pilots.
- No more permits for recreational and educational use in more than 25 protected areas.
The nature reserves are divided into three categories:
- Areas where recreational permits are no longer issued at all.
- Areas with a seasonal closure from May 1 to September 15.
- Areas with a seasonal closure from June 15 to September 15.
Where are hobbyists no longer allowed to fly in Iceland?
Permits for recreational use are no longer issued at approximately fifteen locations. These include, among others:
- Gullfoss
- Skógafoss
- Goðafoss
- Geysir
- Dyrhólaey
- Látrabjarg
- Háifoss
- The Mývatn area
A complete list of restricted areas and areas with seasonal closures can be found on the website of Náttúruverndarstofnun.
Areas with seasonal closures
In addition to prohibited areas, there are also areas with seasonal closures. This means that drones may not be flown (without a permit) during that season. Outside of the seasonal closure period, drones are permitted.
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Flying drones in Vatnajökull and Pingvellir
There are two national parks with their own drone rules:
Flying drones in Vatnajökull National Park
One of the areas with a seasonal closure is Vatnajökull National Park. This park has five zones with rules for drones. In some zones, drones are completely prohibited; in other zones, drones are permitted between certain times, which vary by season. A complete overview of permitted drone flight times can be found on the national park’s website.
Flying drones in Pingvellir National Park
Flying drones is permitted in the early morning, before 9:00 a.m., or in the evening after 6:00 p.m. The rules and permitted times for drone flying in Pingvellir National Park can be found on the website.
Where are you allowed to fly your drone in Iceland?
Iceland is known as one of the most beautiful drone destinations. The island boasts a lot of unspoiled nature. Much of the Icelandic landscape is open and sparsely populated, offering plenty of space to capture stunning images.
The areas where drones are permitted can be found on the drone map. If no no-fly zone or seasonal closure is marked, drones are permitted.
How can I obtain a permit as a professional drone pilot?
As a professional drone pilot, it is possible to obtain a permit to fly in a restricted area. You can apply for a permit via the portal at island.is. The form requires a detailed description of the drone flight and your drone certificate.
The processing time for permits is typically 15 days and costs 83,200 ISK (€570).
Do you need a drone license to fly in Iceland?
Yes. Iceland is subject to EASA drone regulations. Therefore, the same drone rules apply in Iceland as in the EU. The EU Drone License is often required to fly a drone in Iceland.
How do you obtain your EU Drone License for Iceland?
If you want to fly in Iceland, it all starts with a valid EU Drone License. At EU Drone License, you can get it entirely online, at your own pace, and without any hassle. You’ll learn exactly what you need to know to fly safely and legally, in Iceland and throughout the rest of Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flying Drones in Iceland
Is my EU Drone License valid in Iceland?
Yes. Iceland is subject to European EASA regulations. Your EU drone license and your operator registration number are valid there.
Can I fly a drone weighing less than 250 grams anywhere?
No. Even with a drone weighing less than 250 grams, the no-fly zones apply and you are not allowed to fly there.
Can I still fly at Gullfoss or Skógafoss?
Not as a hobbyist or recreational drone pilot. As of May 17, 2026, permits for recreational use at these iconic locations will no longer be issued. Permits may still be available for professional filming.
Does the change also apply to professional filming?
The new policy makes an exception for professional drone filming. Companies can still obtain a permit, while recreational and educational use is no longer permitted in many areas.
