Sub-250g rules 2026

C0 class in 2026

In 2026 C0-class drones (MTOM below 250 g) remain the lightest-regulated tier under EASA Delegated Regulation EU 2019/945. No operator registration is required if the aircraft has no camera and is not a toy.

However, many popular mini-drone models now include integrated cameras — which can remove the sub-250 g exemption depending on national transposition. Always verify your specific model's class before assuming no registration is needed.

Marking and identification

Even C0 aircraft used in public spaces may need to display the operator's registration number under national rules. Lithuania follows the standard EASA implementation.

Broadcast Remote ID is not yet mandatory for legacy C0 aircraft in 2026, but newer C1 and above aircraft must already have it. Check the technical documentation of your specific drone model.

When A1/A3 is still required

A1/A3 competency is required when: the aircraft MTOM is ≥250 g; the aircraft is C0 with a camera and the national rules trigger registration; or you intend to fly in a geo-zone that mandates a certificate.

In practice, many popular drones marketed as sub-250 g carry cameras and may still require operator registration in Lithuania. See /blog/drone-operator-registration-eu for the full registration walkthrough.

Geo-zones apply regardless of weight

Sub-250 g aircraft are not exempt from geo-zone restrictions. Restricted zones (R) and prohibited zones (P) apply regardless of drone weight. Always check utm.ans.lt before every flight.

Around Vilnius, Kaunas and other major cities, CTR zones require ATC permission. Flying a 200 g drone in a prohibited zone is still a regulatory infringement.

Frequently asked questions

Can I fly a sub-250 g drone anywhere without restrictions?

No. Geo-zone and airspace restrictions apply regardless of weight. Check utm.ans.lt before every flight.

My DJI Mini 4 Pro is under 250 g — do I need to register?

The Mini 4 Pro has a camera, which may trigger registration requirements under Lithuanian TKA rules. Check utm.ans.lt and TKA guidance for the current national interpretation of C0 camera drones.