Drone Laws in Portugal
Yes. EU/EASA operators use their home registration; non-EU residents register with ANAC.
Portugal applies the EASA framework through ANAC, with a 120 m limit and prior authorisation needed for natural parks and many beach and maritime zones.
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
ANAC (uas.anac.pt portal)The rules
- Registration
- Register as a UAS operator for drones 250g+ or any with a camera (generally free; revalidate every 3 years). Operator number on the drone; insurance mandatory for professional use.
- Remote ID
- EASA rule where a zone mandates it and on C1/C2/C3 drones.
- Maximum altitude
- 120 m.
- Line of sight
- VLOS in the Open category; beyond needs ANAC authorisation.
- No-fly and distance rules
- Authorisation needed near airports, over military zones, in natural parks (ICNF) and certain beach/maritime zones (AMN). Check the ANAC "Voa na Boa" zone tool. A2 30 m from people, A3 150 m from built-up areas.
- Commercial and paid work
- No leisure/pro split in the Open category; professional work needs liability insurance and, for higher risk, a Specific authorisation or LUC.
- Notable restrictions
- Lisbon/airport zones; national parks (ICNF) and beaches (AMN) need prior authorisation.
- Penalties
- Fines from a few hundred up to a few thousand euros, plus possible suspension or seizure.
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Find a local drone pilotOfficial 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.