A drone gives you a unique perspective on the world. From breathtaking landscapes to creative video shots: the possibilities are endless. But not everything you see from the air can be recorded just like that. If you start filming without thinking, you risk a fine, legal trouble, or worse.
In this guide, we clearly explain what you’re not allowed to film with a drone. That way, you can enjoy your drone to the fullest, without any unpleasant surprises.
This is perhaps the most common mistake made by novice drone pilots. Your drone is flying over a park, a garden, or an event, and you automatically take footage of people. That may sound harmless, but in many cases, it’s against the law.
In Belgium and throughout the EU, the GDPR legislation (General Data Protection Regulation) applies. Images of identifiable individuals are personal data. You may not simply collect, store, or publish such data.
Please note: even if you don’t publish the footage, simply filming it can constitute a violation if you don’t have permission.
Drones are expressly prohibited above or near military zones. This applies not only to active bases, but also to:
Flying fly and film over these locations is a criminal offense. The penalties can be severe: not only a fine, but also confiscation of your drone and legal prosecution.
Filming in sensitive infrastructure is also prohibited, even if it seems scenic or interesting to film from the air. Examples include:
The government considers this a security risk. Both flying and filming can result in penalties here.
Drones are strictly prohibited from fly or film over prisons. This is a legal prohibition in Belgium and also applies to courthouses and secure psychiatric facilities.
In addition to the security risks that drones can pose in these settings (such as dropping prohibited items), this ban also protects the privacy and safety of inmates and staff.
Strict no-fly zones. That also means: no video footage from those zones.
In Belgium, there is a ban on flying within a certain radius of airports such as:
Do you still want to take pictures near an airport? Then you’ll need need explicit permission from air traffic control. Without that permission, it is prohibited, even if you are not filming the runway itself.
Above crowded areas it is dangerous and, in most cases, prohibited. This also applies to filming near:
In the open category (which includes most consumer drones), you are not allowed to fly over concentrated crowds of people. Do you still want to film at such events? If so, you’ll need a special permit and must comply with additional safety requirements.
Filming on Private Property is not permitted without the owner’s express consent. This applies to:
In certain nature and forest reserves , drones are prohibited or subject to strict restrictions. Local regulations may differ from national rules, so always check in advance to see if your flying location is in a protected area.
Possible restrictions in nature reserves:
Do you want to capture stunning nature photos? If so, always check the local regulations with the municipality or the relevant nature conservation agency.
Anyone who ignores the rules risks:
Would you like to learn more about the rules for drones in Belgium? Then read our comprehensive page on the drone regulations in Belgium.
Yes, you can fly drones in public parks (unless it’s a no-fly zone), but you may not film recognizable people without their consent. Also, be sure to check local municipal regulations, as some municipalities prohibit drones in certain parks.
No. Filming neighbors, their yard, or their home without permission is a violation of privacy and is subject to the GDPR. This can result in a complaint and a fine.
Yes, you may fly and film over your own property. Just make sure you don’t film any neighbors or surrounding private property without permission.
You may approach the pilot and ask him to stop. Filming above your home may constitute an invasion of privacy. In serious cases, you can file a complaint.
The rules regarding drones and filming aren’t meant to restrict you, but to allow everyone to safely and freely enjoy the skies. If you know and follow the basic rules, you can capture beautiful footage without any problems.
Are you unsure which drone best suits your needs, or would you like advice on flying legally and responsibly? Please contact our team of specialists. We’d be happy to help you.
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