Drones are unmanned aerial vehicles which, together with the remote control, form an "Unmanned Aircraft System" (UAS). They offer you a wide range of possible applications, for example in the field of photography and videography, for rescuing fawns or surveying areas.

If you fly over an area with a drone, you may need permission to do so. Such areas are called "geographical UAS areas". They are defined by the aviation authority and regulate where drone flights are permitted, restricted or completely prohibited. This is intended to avoid risks to

• public safety,
• the protection of privacy and personal data or
• the environment.

Throughout Germany, there are certain areas that you are not allowed to fly over with your drone without further ado. These include, for example

• Freeways and federal highways
• Rivers and canals that belong to the federal government
• Private residential properties

Do you want to fly over such an area with your drone, but cannot obtain permission from the operator or the responsible authority (for example near airports or over residential properties and at an altitude of less than 100 meters)?
You can apply for permission to do so if you can prove a legitimate interest. There is a general and an individual permit.