Drone rules in Norway

The general EU rules (also apply in Norway)

Norway follows the European drone rules (EASA). This basis is the same everywhere in the EU:

· Maximum height: 120 metres above the ground.

· Always within visual line of sight (VLOS): you must be able to see your drone.

· Not above crowds of people and not in no-fly zones.

· EU Drone Certificate mandatory for every drone from 250 grams or with a camera, plus registration as an operator.

Your Dutch EU Drone Certificate and operator number are valid in Norway. So you don't need to register again or take a new exam. However, additional national rules do apply, and you can read about them below.

The additional drone rules in Norway

Norway is not an EU member, but it is a member of EASA, which means the European drone rules apply and your EU Drone Certificate is recognised. The national authority is Luftfartstilsynet (the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority). Norway differs on these points: 

Greater distance from airports

Where in the Netherlands the CTR zones are decisive, Norway applies a clear rule of thumb: stay at least 5 kilometres away from civil and military airports. That is considerably further than many pilots expect.

Ban at tourist hotspots

This is the biggest pitfall in Norway. At many famous natural locations, such as Trolltunga, Preikestolen (the Pulpit Rock) and Kjeragbolten, a local flying ban applies, even though it looks like open nature. You can recognise it by the "No Drone" signs on site. It is precisely the places everyone wants to film that are often prohibited. So always check in advance and respect the signs.

Nature and wildlife protection

In and around national parks and protected nature areas, flying is often prohibited so as not to disturb animals. Norway takes nature protection seriously, and fines are likely if you break the rules. 

Registration and insurance

You register with Luftfartstilsynet if you don't yet have an operator number, but with your Dutch registration you are all set. Liability insurance is not mandatory for recreational use, but it is strongly recommended. We advise you to fly insured in any case, because damage abroad can turn out to be expensive. 

Check the Luftfartstilsynet map

Norway has an official no-fly-zone map via Luftfartstilsynet. Consult it before your flight, and watch out for "No Drone" signs at natural locations on site. Those signs take precedence, even if the map shows an area as free. Here you will find all European drone maps.

Frequently asked questions about flying a drone in Norway

Is my EU Drone Certificate valid in Norway?

Yes. Norway is a member of EASA, which means your Dutch EU Drone Certificate and operator number are simply valid. You don't need to register again or take a new exam.

Can I fly my drone at Trolltunga or Preikestolen?

Usually not. Many famous Norwegian hotspots such as Trolltunga, Preikestolen and Kjeragbolten have a local flying ban, recognisable by "No Drone" signs. Always respect those signs, even if the area appears free on the map.

How far do I need to stay from airports in Norway?

In Norway you keep a distance of at least 5 kilometres from civil and military airports. That is further than in many other countries, so take this into account when choosing your flying location.

Do I need insurance to fly in Norway?

For recreational use, liability insurance is not mandatory in Norway, but it is strongly recommended. Damage caused by your drone can add up quickly, so flying insured is sensible. 

Well prepared for travelling with your drone

With your EU Drone Certificate you fly legally throughout Europe, including Norway. Don't know the rules yet, or want to be sure you've got it right? Then get the EU Drone Certificate: online, achievable within a day.

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