Drone Laws In Norway: All You Need To Know | 2024 Updated
As drones become more popular, countries are starting to create laws regulating their use. Norway is the latest country to do so, and its new drone laws are causing some confusion. Norway is a beautiful country with pristine nature and serene landscapes.
While Norway is known for its stunning scenery, what may come as a surprise to some is that Norway has quite restrictive drone laws.
Norway is one of the most progressive countries in the world when it comes to drone laws. With a few exceptions, almost anyone can fly a drone without needing any special permission.
This makes Norway an ideal destination for pilots looking to get some practice in or for those seeking to capture amazing aerial footage. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the drone laws in Norway and what you need to know before taking your aircraft up into the skies.
Table of Contents
Are Drones Legal in Norway?
Yes, drones are legal in Norway. However, drone operators must obtain a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAAN) to fly their drones for recreational or commercial purposes.
The permit process is designed to ensure that drones are operated safely and in accordance with Norwegian law. Once you have been granted a permit, you will be able to fly your drone within the specified areas and conditions.
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General Drone Laws in Norway (2024)
In Norway, all drone operators are required to register their drones. Once registered, you must follow these rules:
- Drones may fly no higher than 50 meters (170 feet) in the Open category and up to 120 meters (400 feet) with special permission from CAAN.
- The drone must be within your line of sight, and the operating distance should not exceed 500 meters.
- Remain at a sensible altitude when flying near areas with many people.
- Keep a distance of one kilometer around neighborhoods to ensure safety.
- A safety distance of 500 meters from isolated buildings, people, vehicles, animals, and structures is required unless the owner/person consents.
- To stay safe, avoid flying near airports and heliports. Maintain a minimum distance of eight kilometers from airports and three kilometers from heliports.
- You are not allowed to fly a drone at night.
- You cannot fly near, over, or around military buildings, public utility sites, ancient ruins, or private or public structures.
Open category
Open-category drones are those that can be flown without receiving specific permission from the authorities, given that they meet certain general safety requirements.
These include drones that weigh under 25kg and are not being used for commercial purposes. You won’t need a permit to operate these kinds of drones, but you must still adhere to the rules set by the EASA.
In recent years, open-category drones have become highly popular in the European Union as they can be used for a number of purposes, from recreation to business. Individuals appreciate these unmanned aircraft because they are affordable, easy to use, and versatile.
Not to mention, drones that aren’t restricted to one category tend to be more “user-friendly.” Even though there are definite challenges when it comes to using drones in the EU, at the end of the day, it seems like these aircraft will be a vital part of aviation and transport sooner rather than later.
Specific category
The specific-use category is more limited in its scope than the open category, meaning that not all commercial activities are allowed. For example, you cannot use a drone in this category to photograph or film people without their explicit consent.
Additionally, there are several restrictions that apply to drones used in this way, so it’s important to consult with the EASA before attempting to operate one.
Drones that require special authorization from the government in order to fly are classified as specific-category drones.
These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) weigh between 25 and 150 kilograms and can be employed for commercial use. First, you must procure a permit from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) before flying one of these drones.
Certified category
Drones that have been certified adhere to specific safety guidelines in their design and manufacture. The European Union’s Aviation Safety Agency, EASA, manages various certification programs for different types of drones.
Consequently, if you’re planning to operate an unmanned aircraft, you must consult with the agency first.
If you want to fly a commercial drone that weighs more than 150kg, you must first get a permit from the EASA. Drones in the certified category have specific safety standards set by the EASA.
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Rules for Commercial Purpose In Norway
In order to engage in commercial endeavors in Norway, you first must notify and register with the CAAN. The additional requirements depend on the type of business operation you plan to conduct, which are classified as RO 1, RO 2, or RO 3.
RO 1 Operations
An RO 1 operation is an aircraft that has a maximum take-off mass (MTOM) of up to 2.5 kg, a top speed of 60 knots, and only operates within a visual line of sight (VLOS). This type of operation usually occurs during daylight hours, and safety distances are specified.
- CAA must be notified of any operator’s plans and their commitment to following the established regulations. The declaration should be emailed to [email protected], including the sender’s name, address, contact information, and what type of aircraft will be utilized.
- In order to operate under RO 1, there must be an accountable operations manager 16 years or older present, in addition, Use of an Operations Manual, Maintenance of a Flight Log, Adhering to the Manufacturer’s Maintenance Instructions, Mark Aircraft with Operator’s Name and Telephone Number
RO 2 Operations
An RO 2 undertaking is an aircraft with a maximum take-off weight of 25 kg and a top speed of 80 knots for pilots who are following their craft within sight (LOS or EVLOS) during daylight hours and within specified safety distances, or for those operating Blind LOS (BLOS).
- Before RO 2 operators can start their company, they first need to obtain a license from the CAA Norway. Along with the application, risk analysis and an operations manual are required.
- The pilot or person in command must finish a Norwegian online drone operator training course with flying. The fee for the test is currently 1010 NOK.
- RO 2 operations necessitate having an account manager who is 18 years or older.
- Furthermore, you will need to show the development of a quality system, how the aircraft meets airworthiness requirements, an operations manual, evidence of maintenance records kept in a flight log, adhering to manufacturer’s maintenance instructions) and having the operator’s name and telephone number visibly marked on the aircraft.
RO 3 Operations
An RO 3 undertaking is one in which the aircraft has a maximum take-off weight of 25 kg or more, has a top speed of 80 knots, is powered by a turbine engine, will be used for BLOS operations at altitudes greater than 120 meters, will operate in controlled airspace at altitudes greater than 120 meters, or will operate over or near crowds of people.
- RO 3 operators must obtain a license from CAA Norway before beginning any operations. They must also do a risk analysis and have an accompanying operations manual.
- The pilot or operator in command must finish an online drone training course to conduct a flight. The price for taking the examination is 1010 NOK. However, it’s only available currently in Norwegian.
- All RO 3 operations require the presence of an 18-year or older accountable operations manager.
- Furthermore, you must prove the development of a quality system, the aircraft’s airworthiness, an operational manual, flight logs, compliance with the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions, and the operator’s name and telephone number being applied to the aircraft.
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Registering as a Drone Pilot
European Regulation (EU) 2019/947 requires that UAS operators must register, not the aircraft themselves. The UAS Pilot, or Remote Pilot (RP), is the person who physically flies the drone.
They are responsible for the safety of the flight. The UAS Operator is the person or company who oversees operations and gives flight instructions.
This person or legal entity bears all responsibility for flights conducted under their authority. Usually, in OPEN category flights flown by an individual, the pilot and operator are one and the same.
Operators in the OPEN category must register when:
- UAS that weighs 250 g or more
- UAS weighing 250 g or less
- Can operate at speeds above 90 kilometers per hour
- If it has equipped with a camera or microphone
You must renew your UAS operator registration number yearly following the same process in order to keep it active. You will always use the same number unless you are permanently deregistered from the register.
Civil Aviation Authority Norway (CAAN)
The Civil Aviation Authority Norway (CAAN) is a government agency responsible for regulating civil aviation in Norway. This includes regulating the use of drones, which are becoming increasingly popular for both recreational and commercial purposes.
In order to fly a drone in Norway, you must first obtain a permit from the CAAN. The permit process is designed to ensure that drones are operated safely and in accordance with Norwegian law.
Once you have been granted a permit, you will be able to fly your drone within the specified areas and conditions. The CAAN is responsible for ensuring that drones are used safely and responsibly, and we will continue to work hard to promote the safe use of this technology.
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European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)
EASA is a top-tier aviation safety organization that was established in 2002. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is the Single European Sky safety regulator. EASA’s mission is to improve aviation safety and environmental protection while ensuring a high level of security.
The agency develops, implements, and monitors common safety rules for civil aviation in Europe. EASA also promotes cooperation between Member States and works with other international partners to improve global aviation safety. Drones are a rapidly evolving technology with great potential for both civilian and commercial use.
EASA is developing a regulatory framework to ensure that drones are operated safely and responsibly in European airspace. This work includes developing technical standards, issuing operating rules, and conducting research on drone technology.
EASA is also working with Member States and other international partners to promote the safe integration of drones into the airspace system.
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No Drone Zones In Norway
No Drone Zone is an area where drones are not allowed to fly. Drones are typically banned in these areas because they can pose a safety hazard or because they may be disruptive. No Drone Zones are often found near airports, as drones can interfere with plane traffic.
Other common No Drone Zones include national parks, stadiums, and other large gatherings of people. In some cases, drones may be allowed to fly in a No Drone Zone if they have been given prior permission from the authorities.
However, checking the rules before flying a drone in any restricted area is important. Drones that are caught flying in a No Drone Zone without permission may be subject to fines or other penalties.
Conclusion
Drones have become increasingly popular for both recreational and commercial purposes. It is important to understand the regulations and laws surrounding drone use, as flying a drone without permission can incur hefty fines or other penalties.
Flying your drone under safety regulations and in accordance with the law is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Norway, as well as other countries around the world, has put in place regulations for drone use, and it is important to understand them before taking off.
If you plan on flying your drone in any country or location, make sure that you understand the local regulations and get permission from the relevant authorities if necessary.
Doing so will help ensure that your flight is safe and compliant with all applicable laws. Hope this article helped you. Feel free to leave a comment and share this article.
