Tag: drone insurance Belgium

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Flying a Drone in Belgium – Rules, Registration and FAQs (2025)

Drones are becoming increasingly popular in Belgium. They’re used for photography, video, inspections, mapping and even as a hobby. But many people still wonder: where can you fly, do you need to register, what are the rules, and what are the penalties if you don’t comply?

This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about drone use in Belgium in 2025.

Do I need to register my drone in Belgium?

Yes, in most cases.

Any drone with a camera or weighing more than 250 grams must be registered in the Drone Portal of the Belgian Civil Aviation Authority (DGLV).

How to register your drone in Belgium

  1. Go to the official Drone Portal.
  2. Create an account or log in with your eID.
  3. Register yourself as an operator.
  4. Add your drone(s).
  5. You will receive a unique operator ID that must be displayed on your drone.

Even the light DJI Mini 4 Pro (249g) must be registered as soon as it has a camera.

Where can you fly a drone in Belgium?

Belgium uses a system of geo-zones.

  • You may not fly over cities, airports, military areas or nature reserves.
  • The maximum altitude is 120 metres.
  • Keep a safe distance from people, buildings and roads.

For a full overview, read our article: Where can you fly with a drone in Belgium? All about geo-zones.

Can you film freely with a drone?

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When a Drone Federation Goes Silent – Our Experience with the Belgian Drone Federation

At DroneView.be, we strongly believe in collaboration within the Belgian drone sector. Professional pilots, training centers, insurers, and authorities all benefit from clear communication and united representation.
In early 2025, we decided to join the Belgian Drone Federation (BDF), convinced that an active federation could help move the sector forward.

Six months later, we regret to conclude that the federation appears to have gone completely silent.

Belgian Drone Federation

What Membership Should Offer

According to the BDF’s official website, an annual membership of €199 (excl. VAT) should include:

  • Representation and advocacy for the drone sector
  • Networking with fellow professionals and entrepreneurs
  • Four newsletters per year
  • Free access to webinars
  • Discounts on BDF events and Van Dessel drone insurance
  • First-line advice on Open A1/A3, Open A2 & Specific categories
  • Company listing on the BDF website
  • Invitations to PRO events and roundtable sessions

On paper, a solid offer for professional drone operators.

The Reality

Unfortunately, the reality is quite different.
Since joining in March 2025, we have only received an automatic payment confirmation — no newsletters, no invitations, no updates, no communication at all.
After several attempts to reach out — via email, social media, and directly to board members — we received no reply. Even simple questions went unanswered.

After six months, it seems clear that the federation has ceased to operate actively.

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Drone Licences in Belgium: What Are You Allowed to Do in Each Category?

At DroneView.be, we frequently receive questions about drone licences, regulations, and what is or isn’t allowed when flying a drone in Belgium. And with good reason—information is often scattered, outdated, or incomplete. That’s why we decided to publish this comprehensive, up-to-date article to explain everything clearly. Whether you’re a hobbyist curious about flying rules, or you’re aiming to become a professional drone operator, this guide will get you started the right way.

The Three Categories According to EASA

Since 2021, drone flights in Europe fall under EASA regulations. These rules don’t distinguish between recreational and commercial use but instead focus on the risk level of the flight. There are three main categories:

1. Open Category

For low-risk flights. No prior authorisation is needed as long as you follow the rules. It is divided into subcategories A1, A2, and A3:

  • A1: Flying over uninvolved people is allowed (but not over crowds). Only with drones under 250g or with a C1 label.

  • A2: Flying near people (at least 30m away, or 5m with slow-mode). Only with drones with a C2 label.

  • A3: Flying far from people and buildings. For heavier or older drones (over 250g without a C-label).

For all of these, you need at least the A1/A3 certificate, which you can obtain for free through the Belgian aviation authority (DGLV).

Important: Many websites offer paid courses for the A1/A3 exam, but the exam itself is completely free through the Belgian government’s Drone Portal.

 

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