In Switzerland, there are areas where flying drones is prohibited or only possible to a limited extent. As a drone pilot, you are required to learn about applicable area restrictions before each drone flight.
| The contents of this website refer to legal bases that are in force. |
Overview flight restrictions
National restrictions
Cantonal restrictions
Temporary restrictions
Sensitive areas
National restrictions are permanent and marked on the interactive drone map. Drone operations are prohibited or subject to restrictions. If you want to fly your drone in the following areas, you are required to learn about applicable restrictions and, if needed, apply for a permit from the relevant authority:
- 5 km of the runways of a civil or military airfield (magenta)
- control zone, CTR (blue)
- Federal game or nature reserve (yellow)
Cantonal restrictions must first be clarified with the responsible cantonal authority. By the end of 2021, the map will also show the cantonal area restrictions.
Temporary flight restrictions are illustrated as red zones on the DABS chart. As the chart is being updated on a daily basis, pilots are required to consult the chart before each flight.
Sensitive areas are areas with associated flight risks that are not marked in the drone map. The FOCA recommends avoiding these areas (inexhaustive list):
- nuclear power plants,
- wind turbines,
- correctional facilities,
- hospitals and other health care facilities with helipads,
- military infrastructure;
- mountain landing sites
Drone map
s.geo.admin.chThe drone map is non-exhaustive. Please check further restrictions in the section "overview flight restrictions" in the section above.
U-Space: The drone map of the future
susi.swissThe FOCA is currently working on the implementation of the U-Space (UTM) programme, which aims to integrate drones safely into the airspace and allow manned and unmanned aviation to coexist. A number of different digital services form the basis of U-Space. A service which provides real-time information about current area restrictions will also likely be a component of U-Space in the future.
Further information
Legislation
Links
Publications
Geofencing DJI (PDF, 216 kB, 21.01.2021)With its geofencing technology, the drone manufacturer DJI can pre-define the geographical zone in which a drone can be operated. Information about unlocking zones can be found in this document.
Last modification 09.06.2021
Contact
Federal Office of Civil Aviation