Flying a drone in a nature reserve

1. Check the area’s rules and restricted zones before your trip

Nature reserves, such as national parks, may have restricted zones where movement is prohibited at least during part of the year. The ban may also be permanent and year-round, as in nature parks. The movement ban also applies to flying drones and retrieving a fallen drone. Restrictions can be found on site maps and in the area’s regulations.

2. Give wild animals and grazing livestock peace

Never approach or follow animals with a drone, as they may perceive it as threatening and stressful. Observing and photographing nature is best done from the ground and from such a distance that the subject doesn’t even notice it.

3. Avoid flying during nesting and migration seasons

Birds react to drones in different ways, and a safe distance cannot be precisely defined. The most sensitive time is during migration and nesting, from the beginning of March to the end of October. Therefore, it’s worth considering whether flying is necessary, even if there is no actual ban in place.

4. Be considerate of other people in nature

Many seek peace and quiet in nature. Even if the pilot’s goal is simply to capture a memorable view in the best possible way, not everyone enjoys the buzzing of a drone. Filming in public places is allowed, but the idea of being filmed may feel unpleasant to others.

5. Know the official guidelines and special areas

For example, proximity to the national border or military areas may require a special permit, a notification, or may prohibit flying altogether. More information about flying drones is available on Fintraffic ANS’s website (ais.fi).