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Drones in the Faroe Islands

Recreational drones have become increasingly popular in recent years. This is especially the case for photographers, journalists and influencers. However, flying drones comes with legal and moral responsibilities. Staying informed is paramount to avoid accidentally breaking the law. Illegally flying drones in the Faroe Islands can result in a fine of DKK 5000.

When discussing Faroese drone legislation, there are two sets of laws being enforced as of April, 2025:

Being familiar with both sets of laws is highly recommended before attempting to operate any drone in the Faroe Islands.

Drone Licences

As of July 2025, drones weighing more than 250g need an appropriate drone certificate from an EASA country. Currently, drone certificates cannot be obtained on the Faroe Islands. They can be obtained in Denmark and other EASA countries.

Drones weighing less than 250g do currently not need a licence. However, the Faroese regulations on how and where to fly drones still apply to these drones.

Registration as Drone Operator

Drone owners in Denmark and the Faroe Islands are required to register as drone operators, provided that the drone weighs 250 grams or more. The same applies for the owners of sensor-equipped drones lighter than 250 grams. Those possessing drones marketed as toys need not register themselves as drone operators. If the drone owner is already registered in an EU country, then he or she need not register anew. Having registered, the drone operator is required to label the drone with their drone operator ID number. Among other responsibilities, drone operators are responsible for keeping their drones properly insured. Drone operators are also responsible for logging all flights conducted with their UAVs.

Good Advice for Drone Pilots

When flying a drone, the pilot should be aware of his or her surroundings, respecting the privacy of locals and the safety of wildlife. Due to the unpredictable nature of Faroese weather, it is also advisable to use robust equipment and to always to check the weather forecast before flying.

Appeal to stop flying drones in Tórshavn Old Town (á Reyni)

This is a plea to respect the privacy of local people. Recently, several drones have been flown in the capital. Therefore, this is a reminder that the operation of drones within 150 metres of any built-up area, whether in a city or a village, is not permitted.

Summary of Regulations

An individual with an A1/A3 certificate (or with no certificate) may only operate drones in the Faroe Islands if the following conditions (amongst others) are met:

  • Drones MUST NOT be flown within 150 metres of any built-up area, including both cities and villages.
  • Drones MUST NOT be flown within 150 metres of any road whose speed limit is above 70 km/h.
  • Drones MUST NOT be flown within a 5-kilometre radius of Vágar Airport (FAE). (This means that flying over the viewpoints Trælanípan and Bøsdalafossur is prohibited.)
  • Drones MUST NOT be flown within a 2-kilometer radius of any helicopter landing site.
  • Drones MUST NOT be flown above enclosed private properties without explicit permission from the land owner.
  • Drones MUST NOT be flown within 5 metres of residential buildings without explicit permission from the owner.
  • Drones MUST NOT be flown above whale hunts or within a 150-metre radius of fishery inspections.
  • Drones MUST NOT be flown more than 120 metres above ground level, except when flying over man-made structures exceeding 120 metres in height, in which case you can fly 15 metres above the structure when permission has been obtained from the owner.
  • Drones MUST be properly insured.
  • The drone operator must keep appropriate logs of all drone missions.

A comprehensive list of Faroese regulations can be found here and here.

Disclaimer: This article is based on the information provided by the Danish Civil Aviation and Railway Authority and does not constitute legal advice. Please check important information.