Can I fly a drone?
Yes, following the European rules (EASA) and ENAC's. Flying a drone is allowed under the European EASA regulation, managed in Italy by ENAC. If the drone weighs 250 g or more, or has a sensor (camera), you must register as an operator on the d-flight portal and apply the identification code (QR) to the drone. Most amateur uses fall under the "open" category (subcategories A1/A2/A3), which depending on weight requires an online competence certificate/licence. Strict rules apply: don't exceed 120 metres altitude, keep the drone in sight, don't fly over crowds or sensitive areas (airports, no-fly zones), and respect privacy. Third-party insurance is mandatory.
📋 The rules
- Drone ≥250 g or with camera: operator registration on d-flight
- "Open" category (A1/A2/A3): online licence by weight
- Max altitude 120 m and drone always in sight
- Banned to fly over crowds and sensitive areas (airports, no-fly zones)
- Third-party insurance mandatory; respect privacy
🔓 Exceptions
- Toy drones under 250 g without a camera: reduced requirements
- Higher-risk operations: "specific" category with ENAC authorisation
- Geographical zones with bans or limits: check the d-flight map
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Flying without registration, without the required licence, above altitude limits, over crowds or in no-fly zones carries administrative sanctions from ENAC, even high ones, and possible seizure of the drone. Privacy violations (unauthorised filming of people or property) can bring further consequences. In case of an accident or damage to others, the operator is liable, which is why insurance is mandatory. Before flying, register on d-flight, get any required certificate, check the zone map and respect altitudes and distances.
📎 Official sources
- ENAC · Drones and remotely piloted aircraft →
- d-flight · Operator registration and map →
- EASA · EU rules for drones →
❓ Frequently asked
Do I have to register my drone?
You must register as an operator on the d-flight portal if the drone weighs 250 grams or more, or if it has a sensor such as a camera. After registering you get an identification code (QR) to apply to the drone.
Do I need a licence for the drone?
Most amateur uses fall under the "open" category. Depending on the drone's weight and subcategory (A1, A2, A3), a competence certificate may be required, obtained via an online course and exam on the ENAC website.
Where can't I fly the drone?
You can't fly over crowds, airports and banned or sensitive zones. You must keep the drone in sight and not exceed 120 metres altitude. Zones with bans or limits are shown on the d-flight portal map: check it before flying.
Is insurance mandatory?
Yes. To fly a drone, third-party liability insurance is mandatory, covering any damage to people or property. In case of an accident the drone operator is liable, so insurance is a necessary protection as well as an obligation.
Can I film people with the drone?
You must respect privacy. Filming people, private property or places without authorisation can breach data-protection rules. Avoid filming identifiable individuals without consent and don't share images that harm others' privacy.
🔎 Common searches
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