There are currently no commercial authorisations for applying pesticides by drone in the UK. HSE allows drone application only under a limited number of Extrapolated Trials Permits. Use this checklist only if you hold one for the product and use you plan.
Work through the checklist before each job. Every item must be true before you fly. If any item is not true, do not spray.
Permissions for this application
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You need a permit every time you apply a pesticide from the air, including every application by drone.
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Check the permit names the product and the use you plan.
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Low volume and ultra-low volume formulations are not permitted with drone applicators.
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Spraying needs a UK SORA-based Operational Authorisation. PDRA01 does not allow dropping articles.
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This is a condition of every HSE aerial spraying permit. The CAA's drone guidance does not describe this certificate for drones, so confirm with the CAA how it applies to your operation before you apply for the permit.
People, aircraft and insurance
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HSE currently accepts PA1 plus PA6, or equivalent.
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Ask your insurer to confirm the policy complies. Insurance is also a condition of your Operational Authorisation.
The area you will spray
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This is a condition of every aerial spraying permit.
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This applies only if the area is in or close to a conservation area. Defra's MAGIC maps show nearby conservation areas.
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Letting polluting matter enter inland freshwaters without an environmental permit is an offence in England and Wales. SEPA regulates the water environment in Scotland. In Northern Ireland, report water pollution to the Northern Ireland Environment Agency.
After the job
If an item is not true
Do not fly the job. Get the missing permission, certificate or inspection first, or change the plan so the item is true. If the product, land or timing has changed, check that your HSE permit still covers the job.
The guide on spraying crops with drones explains how to get each permission.
Legal basis
Primary legislation and key regulations
Related Guvnor guides
HSE aerial spraying permit for plant protection products
The permit you need for every drone application of a pesticide.
CAA Operational Authorisation (Specific category)
The UK SORA-based authorisation you need to fly a spraying drone.
Official guidance
HSE: aerial spraying (opens in a new tab)
HSE's current position on drone application and the permit application plan.
HSE
CAA: carrying goods and dropping articles (opens in a new tab)
Why dropping articles, including spraying, is outside PDRA01.
CAA
CAA: aerial work (opens in a new tab)
The CAA's page on aerial application certificates.
CAA