Estonia Considers New Rules for Agricultural Drone Spraying

Estonia is considering changes to its plant protection legislation that could allow agricultural drones to be used for crop spraying under specific conditions.

The proposed amendments to Estonia’s Plant Protection Act (Bill 919 SE) aim to introduce a regulatory framework for the application of plant protection products using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

The initiative could mark an important step toward expanding the use of agricultural drones in Estonia, where aerial application of plant protection products is currently subject to strict restrictions.

What Would the New Regulations Change?

Under the proposed legislation, agricultural drones could be permitted to apply plant protection products under defined conditions.

Unlike conventional aerial spraying methods, agricultural drones can provide more targeted application, automated flight planning and greater flexibility when operating in smaller or difficult-to-access agricultural areas.

However, the proposed changes would not introduce unrestricted drone spraying. Operators would still need to comply with applicable aviation, environmental and plant protection requirements.

Potential Benefits for Estonian Agriculture

If adopted, the new regulations could create additional opportunities for precision agriculture in Estonia.

Agricultural spraying drones offer several potential advantages:

• Precision application: Targeted treatment of specific field areas.
• Improved accessibility: Operations in difficult terrain or areas unsuitable for heavy machinery.
• Reduced soil compaction: Less reliance on ground-based agricultural equipment.
• Operational flexibility: Automated flight planning and efficient coverage of selected areas.
• Resource efficiency: Potentially more accurate application of agricultural inputs.

Current Legislative Status

Bill 919 SE has completed its first reading in the Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu) and is progressing through the legislative process.

The proposed amendments have not yet been adopted. Until the legislation enters into force, existing restrictions on aerial application of plant protection products remain applicable.

If approved, the changes could provide a clearer regulatory framework for agricultural drone spraying and support the further adoption of precision farming technologies in Estonia.

Source: Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu), Bill No. 919 SE — Act Amending the Plant Protection Act.