Flying Drones in Italy: ENAC Regulations and Guidelines

Introduction: Drones and Italy's Unique Cultural Context

Italy is a nation steeped in history and beauty, with its "Città d'Arte" (historic cities) and breathtaking landscapes. Piloting drones here not only offers opportunities for capturing stunning visuals but also imposes responsibilities to navigate strict regulations. From bustling cities like Rome and Florence to serene countryside vistas in Tuscany and Umbria, drone operators must adhere to both European EASA regulations and national rules enforced by ENAC (Ente Nazionale per l'Aviazione Civile).

This guide, brought to you by 120mAGL.com, dives into the ENAC framework for drones in Italy, explaining how these rules align with EASA standards, while highlighting Italy-specific requirements to ensure safe and legal operations. Whether you're capturing wedding footage in a Tuscan vineyard or inspecting rooftops in Milan, understanding the regulations is essential to avoid penalties and ensure smooth operations.

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EASA vs ENAC: Understanding the Regulatory Framework

EASA: European Base Regulations

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) establishes the core rules for drone operations across Europe, covering areas such as:

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  Categories of Operations: Open, Specific, and Certified categories (Reg. UE 2019/947 Art. 4, 5).
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  Drones Below 250g: Simplified requirements for lightweight drones (Reg. UE 2019/947 Art. 20).
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  Operator Responsibilities: Registration, safety measures, and operational limits (Reg. UE 2019/947 Art. 14).

ENAC: Italy's National Implementation

While EASA provides the regulatory foundation, ENAC adds specific rules tailored to the Italian context. Examples include:

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  Italian Geographic Zones: Additional restricted areas such as national parks and historic sites.
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  Local Authorization: ENAC requires operators to check the D-Flight portal for zone-specific permissions.
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  Cultural Heritage Protections: Enhanced restrictions near UNESCO sites and "Città d'Arte."

Important: Always consult ENAC's official resources (www.enac.gov.it) for Italian-specific rules, and use the D-Flight platform for real-time updates on restricted zones.

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Key ENAC Requirements for Drone Pilots

1. Registration and QR Code

Every drone, regardless of weight, must be registered on the D-Flight portal and display its unique QR code. Here’s how:

1. Create an account on D-Flight .
2. Enter drone details, including weight, model, and serial number.
3. Pay the registration fee.
4. Download and affix the QR code to your drone.

2. Operating Limits

Drone operations in Italy are subject to strict altitude and proximity limits:

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  Maximum altitude: 120 meters Above Ground Level (AGL) (Reg. UE 2019/947 Art. 4).
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  Distance from people: Maintain a safe distance unless in the "C1" subcategory (Reg. UE 2019/947 Art. 22).
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  Restricted zones: Avoid airports, military bases, and national parks without authorization.

Critical Reminder: Flying in urban areas like Rome or Florence often requires additional ENAC permits due to high population density and cultural sensitivities.

3. Insurance Coverage

ENAC mandates liability insurance for all drones, including those under 250g. Ensure your policy covers:

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  Property damage
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  Injuries to third parties
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  At least €1 million in coverage for commercial operations.

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Practical Scenarios: Flying Drones in Italy

Scenario 1: Urban Operations

Imagine capturing aerial footage of the Colosseum in Rome. Due to Rome's classification as a Città d'Arte, drone flights are prohibited without special authorization. Operators must:

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  Request permission from ENAC using the ATM-09A model.
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  Check for restricted zones on D-Flight.

Scenario 2: Rural Operations

In the Tuscan countryside, drone flights are less restricted, allowing for operations within the Open Category. However, pilots must still:

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  Respect the 120m AGL height limit.
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  Avoid flying over private property without consent.

Scenario 3: Coastal Areas

Drone flights along the Amalfi Coast provide stunning visuals but may encounter marine park restrictions. Pilots must consult local ordinances and ENAC to ensure compliance.

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Checklist: Ensuring ENAC Compliance

Before you fly in Italy, run through this checklist:

1. Drone Registration:

- Registered on D-Flight with QR code affixed.

1. Insurance:

- Liability insurance policy active and valid.

1. Flight Zone Verification:

- Use the D-Flight portal to check for restricted areas.

1. Height and Distance Limits:

- 120m AGL limit followed. - Safe distance maintained from uninvolved persons.

1. Local Authorization:

- Permits obtained for urban or restricted zones.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to register drones under 250g in Italy?

Yes, ENAC requires all drones to be registered, regardless of weight.

Q: How can I check restricted zones in Italy?

Use the D-Flight platform to review updated maps of restricted and prohibited areas.

Q: Can I fly a drone in a national park?

Flying in national parks is prohibited unless you obtain specific authorization from ENAC.

Q: Is drone insurance mandatory?

Yes, ENAC mandates liability insurance for all drone operations.

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Conclusion: Fly Responsibly in Italy

Flying a drone in Italy offers incredible opportunities for creativity and exploration. However, the combination of EASA and ENAC regulations makes it essential to plan your operations carefully. Always prioritize safety, compliance, and respect for cultural heritage.

For more information, visit the official resources:

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  ENAC Regulations
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  D-Flight Platform
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  EASA Guidelines

Disclaimer: Regulations can change. Always verify the latest rules on ENAC and EASA websites before flying.