Bulgaria adopts legislation to regulate spray-drones in agriculture

Bulgaria is one of the first countries in the EU to regulate the use of spraying drones in agriculture. - Photo: Ronald Hissink

Bulgaria has officially adopted the draft law on amendments to the Law on Plant Protection. This significant step forwards addresses the regulation of spray drone usage for agricultural operations within the country.

While new technologies have been increasingly integrated into plant protection practices, there has been a notable gap in the legal framework until now. The existing Plant Protection Law solely regulates aerial and ground spraying methods, without accounting for drones.

Fostering the development of precision farming

The incorporation of drones into agricultural operations brings forth numerous advantages, particularly in mitigating the adverse effects of pesticide usage and fostering the development of precision agriculture. The overarching aim is to employ methods and technologies that are more environmentally friendly while reducing pesticide quantities and their associated harmful effects.

Documentation of each treatment

Utilizing drones for plant protection activities also ensures the avoidance of potential harm to individuals conducting spraying, water bodies, and the surrounding environment. Key amendments entail the mandatory documentation of each treatment, detailing compliance conditions, geographical locations, application dates and times, and the volume of products used. Operators of unmanned aerial systems will be obligated to furnish these records to the relevant Regional Food Safety Directorate.

Undergoing an approval process

Furthermore, all plant protection products utilized must undergo a rigorous approval process following a comprehensive risk assessment. Detailed requirements for unmanned aerial system operators are outlined, including restrictions on treatment area locations.

In addition, the amendments empower the Bulgarian Food Safety Agency to establish and maintain a public electronic register on its website. This register will facilitate the transparent disclosure of plant protection, disinfection, and disinsection activities.

Bulgaria is one of the first countries in the EU to regulate the use of spraying drones in agriculture. In 2023 the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has eased regulations regarding the use of spraying drones to facilitate their practical application. As a result, the devices now fall under a simpler category and are allowed to weigh more. Spray drones are becoming commonplace.