Drone use and legal compliance in agriculture

language Dutch English

On-demand training on how to operate agricultural drones in full compliance with EU and Belgian regulations, including flight rules, spraying requirements and certification paths.

Purpose & Scope

This on-demand training explains the legal, technical and operational requirements for using drones in agriculture. It covers EU drone regulation categories (open/specific, STS, PDRA), national Belgian legislation, and the specific conditions for carrying out spray drone applications. 

The purpose is to equip participants with the knowledge needed to plan and execute drone treatments safely, legally, and efficiently.

The training provides a step-by-step introduction to the regulatory framework governing the professional use of drones in agriculture. Participants learn about licensing requirements such as fytolicentie, authorisations for spraying, environmental protection rules (buffer zones, drift reduction), and the technical characteristics of different spray drone models. Practical examples illustrate how to design a compliant flight plan, assess risks, and select the appropriate equipment for various agricultural tasks.

If you want to get more information about the training, please get in touch with Marijke.hunninck@ilvo.vlaanderen.be

Learning objectives

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

  • Describe the EU and Belgian legal frameworks for agricultural drone flights and spraying.
  • Identify the licenses, operator certificates and authorisations needed for different drone applications.
  • Interpret EU PDRA conditions and understand their national implementation.

Learning outcomes

Participants completing this training will be able to:

  • Determine which approvals, licenses and certifications their intended drone operation requires.
  • Plan a drone spraying or monitoring operation that complies with EU and Belgian regulations.

Who should attend?

Drone operators, technology service providers, agricultural advisors, and professionals supporting farms in drone-based spraying or monitoring.

Type of Topic

AI implementation

Data (data space / bigdata)

Ethics

Other

Robotics

Services

Type of Sector
Arable farming
Horticulture
Tree Crops

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