According to EU regulations, all drones equipped with cameras in the open category A3 must actually keep a minimum distance of 150 meters from residential, commercial, industrial or recreational areas. This is a particular disadvantage for German farmers, as Germany is comparatively densely populated and the fields are often adjacent to residential or commercial areas.
Germany is now the first country in the EU to make use of a national derogation: the BMDV's general ruling establishes a geographical zone for the purpose of animal welfare and wildlife rescue. In these areas, a minimum distance according to the 1:1 rule continues to apply. This means that the minimum distance can be reduced to 10 meters if flown at a correspondingly low altitude. This means that operators still have over 90 percent more space available for drone use.
The exception applies to the operation of drones that are used for animal welfare and wildlife rescue purposes in the open category A3 and not for sport or leisure purposes. It applies from November 20, 2024 and thus follows on seamlessly from the previous decree of the BMDV from March 2024.
Please note the following information (German only):