Drone laws in Montenegro

Last update on 01.10.2021 | 20 Kommentare

In this article, you will find the laws for the use of drones in Montenegro.

The rules for flying drones in Montenegro described below do not apply if the aircraft can not achieve kinetic energy greater than 79 joules or weighs less than 500 grams and can not fly faster than 20m / s, more than 15 meters away or higher than 10 meters.

Bringing a drone into the country

If you bring a drone into the country, even if it’s only for a few days, you’ll need to apply for a permit from the Ministry of Economy. Otherwise, the drone could be confiscated when entering the country. The processing time of the application is up to 30 days. On the Ministry’s website, you will find a form that includes the import of drones. However, the form is not enough and the application is rather complex, according to people who have tried, because it is not possible to send it by e-mail. Instead, you must submit your application in duplicate and either in person or through an authorized person. Also, the import fee must be paid locally. The other documents required apart from the form (including proof of payment, drone specifications, statement on the knowledge of the regulations, the length of stay and drone use) must be written in Montenegrin and notarized. So you should be well versed with the language and the bureaucratic intricacies of the country to successfully apply for this import permit.

Overview: Drone rules in Montenegro

Drone registration

Drones that weigh more than 500 grams and can fly away further than 15 meters and higher than 10 meters should be registered in Montenegro. The application form Declaration in accordance with Ordinance for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) should be sent to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) by post or e-mail.

Classification of drones

In Montenegro, potential flying areas are divided into four classes:

• Class I: a non-built-up area without constructed buildings and persons, except for pilots and personnel required for flying;
• Class II: developed uninhabited area with commercial facilities or constructions that are not intended for the permanent residence of people where there are no people, except pilot and staff for flying.
• Class III: inhabited area with buildings or facilities primarily intended for residence, work or recreation (houses, schools, offices, sports fields, parks, etc.);
• Class IV: Urban zones (downtown, settlements, etc.).

As a private pilot, you are only allowed to fly a drone in classes I and II.

There are four categories depending on the above-mentioned flying areas and the weight classes mentioned below, for which different requirements apply.

To fly in Category A, you must complete a statement and send it to the Aviation Authority. For Category B flights, you will also need an Operations Manual for your maneuvers. Copter flights in Category D may only be made with the approval of the CAA.

Overview of Montenegro Drone Rules

Maximum altitude: Drones must not fly higher than 150 meters above ground in Montenegro.

Maximum horizontal distance and FPV: Drones in Montenegro can only be operated within the direct line of sight and up to a maximum distance of 500 meters. FPV flights are allowed for model airplanes when an Observer monitors the drone with the naked eye.

Compulsory insurance: In Montenegro, you have to cover your drone. Proof of insurance must always be with you.

Maximum take-off weight (MTOW): There are three weight classes in Montenegro:

• Class 5: ascent mass under 5 kilograms
• Class 10: 5 kilograms to 10 kilograms
• Class 20: over 10 kilograms to 20 kilograms

Distance to airports: At airports, a sufficient distance must be kept.

Other safety distances: Your drone must be at a distance of 150 meters from uninvolved persons and 30 meters from buildings, vehicles, and animals.
Groundings:

Operating hours: Drone flights at night are not allowed in Montenegro.

Special legislation: Drones must be marked so that strangers can identify the owner. Here you can order drone stickers.

Commercial pilot regulations: Commercial pilots must register their aircraft with the aviation authority. Besides, a logbook must be maintained by documenting the following information for each flight:

• Date of flight
• Start and landing time as well as the total duration of the operation
• Full name of the pilot
• Location with classification
• The weight of the drone
• Remarks on special occurrences

The documentation must be kept for at least two years.

We have researched the listed drone regulations for Montenegro to the best of our knowledge. We cannot guarantee the correctness of the information. If you want to be on the safe side, contact the competent aviation authority. Alternatively, you can also ask the embassy in your country for further information about the regulations. Please leave us a comment when you receive news and/or gain experience with your copter in Montenegro!