Drone Laws in Switzerland
Yes. Switzerland is in the EASA system. An existing EASA-state registration is valid; otherwise register with FOCA (CHF 10).
Switzerland is part of the EASA system under FOCA, with a 120 m limit, mandatory liability insurance, and a total ban over the Swiss National Park.
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
FOCA / BAZLThe rules
- Registration
- Required unless the drone is under 250g AND has no camera/sensor. CHF 10; min age 12; operator number partly visible on the drone. Third-party liability insurance required (min CHF 1 million).
- Remote ID
- Remote identification must be activated for Open and Specific ops (aligned with the EU 1 Jan 2024 introduction; C0/legacy exempt).
- Maximum altitude
- 120 m.
- Line of sight
- VLOS required; beyond needs FOCA authorisation. Ground immediately if rescue/police helicopters are operating.
- No-fly and distance rules
- 5 km from airports/heliports without authorisation; no flying over assemblies. Swiss National Park (Engadin) is a total ban; nature/wildlife reserves and local bans (e.g. Zermatt centre, ski slopes) apply. Check the FOCA drone map.
- Commercial and paid work
- Same Open/Specific framework; commercial/higher-risk needs FOCA authorisation and insurance.
- Notable restrictions
- Alpine wildlife/nature zones; airport buffers.
- Penalties
- Case-by-case (court-set); reported up to ~CHF 20,000 for serious cases.
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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.