Drone Laws in Spain
Yes. EU/EASA operators use their home registration; non-EU visitors register directly with AESA (e4F system).
Spain follows the EASA framework under AESA, with a 120 m limit and zone-based airport restrictions via the ENAIRE Drones map.
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
AESAThe rules
- Registration
- Register as a UAS operator (free) for drones 250g+ or any drone with a sensor (min age 16). Operator number on the drone; third-party insurance required for A2 and Specific ops.
- Remote ID
- Mandatory since 1 Jan 2024 for class-marked drones (C1+).
- Maximum altitude
- 120 m.
- Line of sight
- VLOS in the Open category; beyond is the Specific category.
- No-fly and distance rules
- Airport-proximity limits are now zone-based via the ENAIRE Drones map (the old blanket 8 km rule was replaced in 2024). National parks, protected natural areas and urban areas/crowds need authorisation. 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 higher-risk work is the Specific category, and insurance is mandatory.
- Notable restrictions
- Dense controlled airspace over Madrid/Barcelona; historic centres and beaches often restricted locally.
- Penalties
- Fines under Ley 21/2003 range widely (roughly €60 up to €225,000+ for the most serious), plus possible 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.