Last updated on October 28, 2025
Yes. Brazil permits the use of drones for agricultural spraying under strict regulations established by the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC). Operators must register their equipment, complete certified training, and comply with safety and environmental standards.
A Sky Full of Possibilities
Picture this: a soybean field stretching to the horizon, and instead of a roaring crop-duster, a sleek drone hums quietly above the green canopy. This isn’t science fiction—it’s Brazil’s agricultural present. Since 2021, when the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) issued Ordinance No. 298, drones have been officially cleared for aerial application of pesticides, fertilizers, and even seeds. The move was a game-changer, unlocking a new era of precision farming where technology meets sustainability.
The Legal Flight Path
Brazil didn’t just open the skies without rules. MAPA’s ordinance requires every operator to register their drone and complete a specialized course known as CAAR (Curso de Aplicação Aeroagrícola Remota). This ensures that pilots understand not only how to fly but also how to apply chemicals responsibly. Companies offering spraying services must employ qualified professionals, including an agronomist and a certified remote pilot. Fail to comply? Expect penalties ranging from fines to suspension of your operating license.
Meanwhile, ANAC—the country’s civil aviation authority—sets the technical and safety standards. Under RBAC-E No. 94, drones used for commercial purposes must be registered and operate within visual line-of-sight, maintaining a safe distance from people and sensitive areas. The agency even approved high-capacity UAVs like the Rotor R550 Sprayhawk for large-scale spraying, signaling Brazil’s commitment to innovation in agriculture.
Why All the Fuss?
The rationale behind these rules is clear: safety and sustainability. Drones can access areas where traditional aircraft struggle—think steep coffee plantations or waterlogged fields—while reducing chemical drift and operator exposure. They also help cut soil compaction and water use, making them a darling of precision agriculture. But with great power comes great responsibility; hence the emphasis on training, registration, and environmental safeguards.
A Market Taking Off
Since regulation took effect, Brazil’s agri-drone market has soared. From just 3,000 units in 2021, estimates now point to over 35,000 drones buzzing across the country’s farms. Yet, challenges remain. Enforcement is still catching up, and thousands of drones operate without proper registration. MAPA is working on updates, including a new digital system for certification and a modernized decree to keep pace with technology.
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Sources
Mercado de drones agrícolas dispara após regulamentação do Mapa
https://www.gov.br/agricultura/pt-br/assuntos/noticias/mercado-de-drones-agricolas-dispara-apos-regulamentacao-do-mapa
06/06/2025
Drones — ANAC National Civil Aviation Agency – Brazil
https://www.anac.gov.br/en/drones
Ongoing