Free restricted airspace guide
Restricted airspace in Europe: the six zone types decoded
Most drone violations happen because the pilot did not know a zone existed or misread what it allows. Six types of restriction cover almost every case. Each has its own authority, its own rules and its own way to get permission. We obtain the drone flight permits your operation needs in any of the 31 EASA countries.
The six zone types
What each zone means for your flight
Zone names and map colours vary by country, but the logic is the same across EASA member states.
| Zone | Typical rule | Who grants permission |
|---|---|---|
| Control zone (CTR) | Flight only with clearance | Air traffic control or U-space service provider |
| Temporary restriction (TFR) | Closed for a set period | The authority named in the NOTAM |
| Prohibited zone (P) | No flight | Exemptions are exceptional |
| Military zone (R-MIL) | Closed when active | Military authority |
| Nature or environmental zone | Restricted or closed to protect wildlife | Park or environmental authority |
| Urban density zone | Conditions for flights over towns and crowds | National authority or local council |
UAS geographical zones are defined by each country under Article 15 of Regulation (EU) 2019/947.
Control zones (CTR)
Airspace around airports. Flights need clearance from air traffic control, and areas close to runways are usually closed to drones.
Temporary restrictions
Published by NOTAM for events, emergencies or VIP visits. They can close an area that is normally open, so check on the day.
Prohibited zones
Areas such as government buildings, prisons and critical infrastructure. Drone flight is banned and exemptions are rare.
Military zones
Training and firing areas. When active they are closed. When inactive, some countries allow flights with prior coordination.
Nature and environmental zones
National parks, reserves and Natura 2000 sites often restrict drones to protect wildlife, sometimes only in certain seasons.
Urban density zones
Towns and crowds raise ground risk. Expect stricter distances, a specific category approval or a local permit.
Zones overlap
One location can sit inside a CTR, a nature reserve and a temporary restriction at the same time. You need permission from every authority involved, not just one.
What you’ll get
The free restricted airspace guide
- The six zone types and what each allows
- How to read zones on the national map
- Which authority to contact for each zone
- How NOTAMs change the picture on the day
- How to request permission
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The six zone types, what each one allows and how to get permission.
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FAQ
Questions about restricted airspace
What is restricted airspace for drones?
Areas where drone flights are prohibited, limited or allowed only under conditions. Each country defines them as UAS geographical zones under Article 15 of Regulation (EU) 2019/947 and publishes them on an official map.
Can I fly a drone in a control zone?
Only with clearance from air traffic control or, where U-space is in place, a U-space service provider. Areas close to runways are often closed to drones.
What is a temporary flight restriction?
A short-term closure published by NOTAM for events, emergency operations or exercises. Check the national NOTAM service on the day of your flight.
Can I fly over a national park?
Often not without a permit. Many parks and reserves restrict drones to protect wildlife. The park or environmental authority decides, separately from airspace rules.
What happens if I fly in a prohibited zone?
You risk fines, confiscation of the drone and, in serious cases, criminal proceedings. Exemptions for prohibited zones are exceptional.
Can EU Drone Port get permission for restricted zones?
Yes. Our flight coordination service handles permissions in control zones and restricted areas across 31 countries for €95 + VAT per flight.
Last updated: October 2026. Source: Regulation (EU) 2019/947 and national aeronautical publications.
Know every zone before you fly. Free guide.
The six restricted airspace types and how to get permission.
6
Zone types explained
31
Countries covered
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Flights coordinated per month
€95 + VAT
Per coordinated flight