It is strictly regulated.
Flying drones over private property in the Netherlands requires compliance with EU-wide and national rules, enforced by the Inspectie Leefomgeving en Transport (ILT). Permission is mandatory unless the drone weighs under 250g, flies below 120m, and avoids restricted zones. Violations risk fines up to €870 or criminal liability under the Wet luchtvaart.
Key Regulations for Flying Drones Over Private Property in Netherlands
- Height and Distance Limits: Drones must maintain a minimum horizontal distance of 50m from private property unless explicit consent is obtained. Flight altitude is capped at 120m above ground level, with stricter limits near airports or military zones.
- Privacy and Data Protection: The Algemene verordening gegevensbescherming (AVG) and Wet bescherming persoonsgegevens prohibit capturing identifiable individuals without consent. Aerial footage of private residences may require prior notification to property owners.
- Permit Requirements: Operations over private property in controlled airspace (e.g., near urban areas) necessitate an Operational Authorization from the ILT. Applications must detail flight paths, purpose, and mitigation of risks to privacy or safety.
Additional restrictions apply under the Besluit risicovolle activiteiten met onbemande luchtvaartuigen (Brul), effective since 2026, which mandates risk assessments for drones exceeding 4kg or operating in densely populated zones. Non-compliance may result in confiscation or legal proceedings. Always consult the ILT’s drone portal for real-time airspace restrictions.