Since January 1, 2023, European legislation on drone flights has come into force in Switzerland, rendering the former Vaud cantonal framework obsolete.

Pending the publication of the new cantonal text currently being prepared, the Vaud Cantonal Police has set up a single platform for reporting drone flights: Swiss U-Space, which can be found online here.

Following the implementation of this new procedure, we would like to inform you that, as of now, EPFL Security will no longer be processing requests for drone flight authorizations. We therefore ask that you use the above-mentioned platform.

This platform, accessible online or via iOS and Android mobile apps, allows all remote pilots to:

• Submit their flight plan,
• Be informed of the restrictions in force in the area concerned,
• Receive confirmation or refusal directly from the competent authorities.

A notification is automatically sent to the remote pilot by email and on their cell phone as soon as a decision is made.

Submitting a flight plan via Swiss U-Space will become mandatory as soon as the new legal framework in Vaud comes into force.

Do you have any question about the new regulations?
Please refer to the FOCA’s website.

Civil liability insurance

It is mandatory to have specific insurance coverage for drones weighing more than 500g. For EPFL units (laboratories, departments, faculties, etc.), activities are covered by EPFL’s civil liability insurance.

Please address all questions or requests for further information by email to [email protected].