Europe
Monaco
DACI — own national framework, not EASA
Monaco has one of the strictest regulations in Europe: every flight requires an annual approval ('agrément') from the Direction de l'Aviation Civile plus a per-flight authorization via the FlySafe system.
Tourist flying effectively not allowed
There is no real 'tourist' path: the process (annual agrément + per-flight authorization, a recognized pilot licence, insurance) makes spontaneous recreational flight effectively impractical for a passing visitor.
Very low threshold: mandatory from 100 g upward.
A pilot licence/qualification recognized in the country of origin is needed, plus the DACI agrément.
Mandatory third-party liability insurance, required as part of the authorization application.
Zones to avoid
No-fly zones usually follow the same recurring categories (airports, military sites, protected areas, historic centers). For this country: Permanent ban over the Palais Princier and Place du Palais; 150 m from the heliport/airport; night flight forbidden.
Verify officially before flying
Source: Direction de l'Aviation Civile de Monaco (DACI — Directorate of Civil Aviation of Monaco)
Last checked: 2026-09
Go deeper
Why registration exists
Operator registration exists for accountability: if a drone causes an incident or enters a restricted zone, the authority needs to be able to trace it back to whoever was flying it. You usually get an identification number (operator ID) to physically attach to the drone, valid for every drone the same person owns. The cost is often minimal or free, and it applies to visiting tourists too, not just residents. For Monaco, the official reference remains Direction de l'Aviation Civile de Monaco (DACI — Directorate of Civil Aviation of Monaco). Very low threshold: mandatory from 100 g upward.
How this usually works
In most systems, the pilot license (or "certificate") is a theory exam, often entirely online and free, covering the basics: airspace, safety distances, privacy. It's nothing like a driving license, but it's still a legal requirement. Most systems have more than one level: an entry-level exam for flights further from people and built-up areas, and a more thorough one if you want to fly closer. The certificate is usually valid for a few years before it needs renewing. The exam and certificate are handled by Direction de l'Aviation Civile de Monaco (DACI — Directorate of Civil Aviation of Monaco). A pilot licence/qualification recognized in the country of origin is needed, plus the DACI agrément.
Informational content, not legal advice. Zones and rules change constantly: always check the country's official website before every flight.