Drone Laws in Ireland

Open to visitors

Yes. EU/EASA operators use their home registration; non-EASA visitors register with the IAA first.

Ireland follows the EASA framework under the Irish Aviation Authority, with a 120 m limit and operator registration for drones 250g and up or any drone with a camera.

This is general guidance, not legal advice. Drone rules change frequently and vary by location. Always confirm the current rules with the national aviation authority (linked below) before you fly. Last reviewed: July 2026.

Aviation authority

Irish Aviation Authority

The rules

Registration
Register as a UAS operator for drones 250g+ or any drone with a camera (approx €41, min age 16); complete the free A1/A3 online test.
Remote ID
EASA rule, on class-marked C1/C2/C3 drones.
Maximum altitude
120 m.
Line of sight
VLOS in the Open category; beyond needs a Specific authorisation.
No-fly and distance rules
No flying near aerodromes, over hospitals or prisons, or in controlled airspace without authorisation; check the IAA/AirNav drone map. A2 30 m from people, A3 150 m from built-up areas.
Commercial and paid work
No recreational/commercial split in the Open category once registered and trained; higher-risk needs a Specific authorisation.
Notable restrictions
National parks and some heritage/coastal sites restrict take-off/landing; Dublin airspace restricted.
Penalties
The IAA or Gardaí can seize a drone and prosecute under the Irish Aviation Regulations.

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Official sources

This is general guidance, not legal advice. Drone rules change frequently and vary by location. Always confirm the current rules with the national aviation authority (linked below) before you fly. Last reviewed: July 2026.

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