The legal framework for counter-drone protection in Hungary (2026)

This page is general information, not legal advice. Consult a lawyer about specific cases.

Who regulates drone flights?

Drone operations are governed by EU regulations – Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 and Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945 – together with Hungarian aviation rules. Since 2021 Hungary has applied stricter national rules: drones and their operators must be registered, and flights over inhabited areas require a separate permit.

So a drone flying without permission over a town or an event is likely breaking the rules itself. That still doesn't make it lawful for anyone to "deal with" the drone.

Is it legal to jam a drone?

No. Radio jammers deliberately cause harmful interference, so they cannot meet EU requirements for radio equipment; their civilian sale and use is not permitted. Jamming also doesn't discriminate: it affects surrounding Wi-Fi, mobile networks – potentially emergency calls – and satellite navigation. Its use is reserved for bodies authorised by law. How jamming works

Can I bring down a drone over my own land?

Not advisable, and it may be unlawful. Shooting, hitting, capturing or damaging a drone may qualify as criminal damage, and a falling drone can endanger people – with consequences more serious than the intrusion itself. For privacy violations contact the police; for data protection matters, Hungary's data protection authority (NAIH).

What is allowed?

• Detection and identification – passive RF sensors, cameras and acoustic sensors may be used. Actively transmitting radar typically requires a spectrum licence.
• Documentation – detection data and footage support proceedings, but may be personal data, so data handling must be set up in advance.
• Notification – the police; at events, via the agreed point of contact.
• Prevention – procedures, advance coordination on airspace, staff preparation.

What may a security guard do?

Security guards' powers are set out in law and do not include jamming, downing or taking control of a drone. A security company's role is detection, documentation and fast notification of the authorities. Security companies

Priority facilities: mandatory drone protection

Under Government Decree 211/2025 (VII. 17.), designated priority facilities must operate a counter-drone protection system according to a drone defence plan prepared by the Special Service for National Security. Drone defence plan

Trade and licensing

Some mitigation equipment may qualify as military or dual-use items, and trading it requires a licence. dronvedelem.hu provides technology knowledge and advice; it does not offer licensed equipment for sale.

FAQ

Do I need a licence for a drone detector?

Passive, non-transmitting sensors typically need no spectrum licence; radar does. Data protection rules apply either way.

What should I do if a drone flies over my house?

Note the time, the drone's direction and – if visible – the pilot's location. For serious or repeated cases, contact the police.

Can the police take down a drone?

Yes – authorised bodies may hold mitigation equipment, and Hungarian law enforcement research has published field evaluations of such devices.