The use of drones is expanding in France, both for recreational and professional purposes. But be careful: drone regulations are strict and change regularly. In 2025, they are based on European laws (EU 2019/947 and 2019/945) and on national rules defined by the DGAC.

Here is a clear and up-to-date guide to understanding drone regulations in France, whether you are a beginner, an enthusiast, or a professional remote pilot.

1. Drone regulation in France: the legal framework

• Regulation (EU) 2019/947: drone operations in the EU (EASA)

• Regulation (EU) 2019/945: technical requirements (classes C0 to C4).

• Decree of December 3, 2020: French-specific rules.

• DGAC / AlphaTango: mandatory registration → official website

2. Common rules for all drones

• Maximum altitude: 120 m.

• Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) required.

• No flying over crowds.

• Respect no-fly zones: airports, nuclear plants, military bases (check Geoportail drones).

• Minimum age: 14 years for drones >250 g.

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3. Drone regulation for recreational use

Individuals use drones for photography, video, or the simple pleasure of flying.

Registration and training

• Registration on AlphaTango required for any drone weighing more than 250 g or equipped with a camera.

• Online training A1/A3 mandatory if >250 g.

Applicable categories

• A1: drones <250 g (e.g., DJI Mini 4 Pro), allowed to fly close to people (but not over crowds).

• A3: heavier drones → flights only far from houses and people.

Restrictions

• Night flights prohibited.

• Urban flights restricted: prohibited in built-up areas unless special authorization is granted.

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4. Drone regulation for professional use

Professional pilots use drones for paid activities: inspection, audiovisual, agriculture, logistics, security.

Registration and identification

• Registration required starting from 250 g.

• For drones >800 g: specific registration + electronic beacon Remote ID.

Training

• Theoretical certificate CATT (Certificat d’Aptitude Théorique Télépilote).

• Practical training strongly recommended.

Categories

• Open: for simple missions in clear areas.

• Specific: complex missions (urban areas, flying over infrastructures). Requires a SORA risk assessment and DSAC authorization.

• Certified: transport of people or dangerous goods (still emerging).

Additional obligations

• Mandatory professional insurance.

• Operations manual (Manex) + safety procedures.

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