Drone legislation in France: The complete guide

Flying a drone in France, whether for leisure or professional purposes, is an exciting but strictly regulated activity. Since the implementation of European harmonization, the rules have evolved to create a common framework across the Union. This article aims to clarify drone legislation in France so you can fly safely and legally.

The European framework: The new benchmark

French regulations are now aligned with the framework defined by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). These regulations classify drone operations into three distinct categories based on the level of risk:

• Open Category: For low-risk operations. This category applies to the vast majority of recreational pilots and many professionals. It requires neither authorization nor an operating declaration before the flight, but it does impose strict rules.
• Specific Category: For operations with moderate risk, such as beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flights, flights over populated areas, or flights with heavier drones. Authorization from the competent authority (the DGAC in France) is required after a risk assessment.
• Certified Category: For high-risk operations, equivalent to those of manned aviation (passenger transport, transport of dangerous goods). The requirements are similar to those of conventional aviation.

We will focus here on the Open category , which is the most common.

The “Open” category: What you need to know

To fly in the Open category, several prerequisites are essential. These rules aim to guarantee the safety of people on the ground and other aircraft.

1. Operator registration: If your drone weighs more than 250 grams or is equipped with a camera (even if it weighs less than 250g), you must register as a UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) operator on the official AlphaTango portal. You will receive an operator number that you must display visibly on your drone.
2. Online training: To fly a drone weighing more than 250 grams, you must complete a short online training course and pass the corresponding exam on the AlphaTango platform. This will provide you with an A1/A3 training certificate, valid for 5 years.
3. Minimum age: The minimum age required to pilot a drone autonomously in the Open category is 14 years in France.

Subcategories A1, A2, A3: Where and how to fly?

The Open category is itself divided into three subcategories which define the authorized flight areas based on the weight and class of your drone (CE marking from C0 to C4).

• Subcategory A1: This category applies to very light drones (less than 250g, class C0) or light drones (less than 900g, class C1). It authorizes overflight of residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational areas. Overflight of isolated individuals is tolerated, but overflight of gatherings of people is strictly prohibited.
• Subcategory A2: For drones up to 4 kg (class C2). This category allows flying near people, while maintaining a minimum horizontal safety distance of 30 meters (or 5 meters in low-speed mode). This category requires additional training (the CATT – Theoretical Aptitude Certificate for Remote Pilots).
• Subcategory A3: This category applies to heavier drones (up to 25 kg, classes C3, C4) or those without a class designation weighing more than 250g. Flights must be conducted away from people and at least 150 meters from residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational areas. This is the most restrictive category.

The 10 golden rules to always follow

Regardless of category or subcategory, fundamental rules apply to all drone flights in France. The DGAC has summarized them in 10 key principles:

1. I don’t just skim over people.
2. I respect the maximum flight altitude of 120 meters .
3. I always keep my drone in direct line of sight.
4. I do not fly at night (except with a light device and at less than 50m altitude).
5. I do not fly my drone over public spaces in urban areas.
6. I do not fly over sensitive or protected sites (nuclear power plants, military sites, historical monuments, national parks, etc.).
7. I respect the privacy of others and do not distribute footage without the consent of the people involved.
8. I check the restriction zones on the Géoportail map “UAS restrictions Open category and aeromodelling”.
9. I am insured for the practice of aeromodelling (civil liability insurance).
10. If in doubt, I ask!

Essential tools and sanctions

Preparation is essential before each flight. Two tools are available to ensure you fly in compliance:

• Géoportail: The IGN portal offers an interactive map of restricted areas for recreational drones. This is an essential step to take before launching your drone.
• AlphaTango: The portal for users of remotely piloted aircraft is the gateway for your registration, your online training and all official procedures.

Penalties: It is crucial to remember that failure to comply with this legislation is not insignificant. Violations can result in fines of up to €75,000 and imprisonment, in addition to the confiscation of equipment. Flying safely and with knowledge of the rules is therefore essential to ensuring that drone flying remains an enjoyable activity for everyone.