Texas Drone Laws Explained Clearly
Texas drone laws can cost you if you miss the fine print. This guide explains the rules that matter—federal and state—without the legal fog. Know what is allowed, what is off-limits, and what could get you fined. If you fly for work, for fun, or for public safety, this page helps you stay compliant and in control.
Federal Drone Laws That Apply in Texas
Before looking at state or city rules, it is important to understand the federal laws set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These laws apply to every drone pilot in the United States, including those flying in Texas.
FAA Registration
Any drone weighing more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams) must be registered with the FAA before flight.
Remote Pilot Certificate
If you are flying for work, business, or anything beyond pure recreation, you must pass the FAA Part 107 exam and hold a remote pilot certificate.
Airspace Rules
Pilots must respect controlled and restricted airspace, such as around airports or military bases. Flying without authorization in these areas can lead to fines and enforcement action.
Operational Limits
The FAA requires drones to be flown below 400 feet, within visual line of sight, and away from manned aircraft. Night flying requires proper lighting and, in most cases, a waiver or updated rules compliance.
Texas Drone Regulations
Central El Paso aerial view near the US 54 and I-10 interchange along the U.S.–Mexico border.
Commercial Drone Pilots in Texas
If you plan to fly for business or any type of paid work, you must comply with the FAA’s Part 107 Small UAS Rule. This includes passing the Aeronautical Knowledge Test to earn your Remote Pilot Certificate. Operating without certification can lead to fines and enforcement actions.
Government and Public Safety Drone Operations in Texas
Law enforcement, fire departments, and other government agencies in Texas may operate drones under Part 107 or through a federal Certificate of Authorization (COA). The COA provides agencies with broader flexibility for missions such as search and rescue or disaster response.
Recreational Drone Pilots in Texas
If you are flying for personal enjoyment, you must complete The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and follow the FAA’s model aircraft rules. Drones that weigh more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams) must be registered with the FAA at a cost of $5. Recreational pilots must also:
- Keep the drone within visual line of sight
- Stay below 400 feet
- Avoid controlled or restricted airspace without prior authorization
FAA Drone Registration and Remote ID Requirements in Texas
Most drones flown in Texas must be registered with the FAA if they weigh more than 0.55 pounds. Registration is quick and inexpensive through the FAA DroneZone.
Along with registration, drones are now required to broadcast Remote ID. This acts as a digital license plate in the sky. Pilots must use either a drone with built-in Remote ID or an approved broadcast module. Flying without it can result in fines or grounding of operations.
Find your aircraft Declaration of Compliance
Texas State Drone Laws
Texas has its own rules on top of federal FAA regulations. These state laws focus heavily on privacy, security, and how drones can be used around private property and critical infrastructure.
Privacy and Image Capture
Texas law makes it illegal to capture images of individuals or private property without consent if the intent is to conduct surveillance. Images taken in violation cannot be used in court and may expose the pilot to civil penalties.
- HB 912 (2013) – Illegal to use drones for surveillance or capture/distribute images without consent.
- HB 2167 (2015) – Allows certain licensed professionals to capture work-related images if individuals are not identifiable.
Restricted Areas of Flight
Texas prohibits drone flights over sensitive sites like prisons, stadiums, and critical infrastructure such as power plants and refineries. These restrictions are in place to protect public safety and prevent potential security threats. Flying in these areas without authorization can result in criminal charges.
- HB 1481 (2015) – Prohibits flights under 400 ft over critical infrastructure (power plants, refineries, water facilities). Violations are a Class B misdemeanor.
- HB 1424 (2017) – Bans drones over prisons and detention centers, as well as sports venues during events.
Border Security and Law Enforcement
Only law enforcement agencies are allowed to use drones for border security within 25 miles of the U.S.–Mexico border. Private drone pilots and businesses are not permitted to use drones for these operations. Insurance and telecom companies are exceptions, but only when operating under FAA authorization.
Texas Government Code Chapter 423 – Only law enforcement may fly drones for border security within 25 miles of the U.S.–Mexico border. Insurers and telecom companies may use drones under FAA rules.
Local Government Limits
Texas restricts cities and counties from creating their own drone rules. The only exceptions are when a locality manages its own special events or operates government-owned drones. This ensures statewide consistency in drone regulations while still allowing some local flexibility.
HB 1643 (2017) – Local governments cannot make their own drone laws, except during special events or when operating their own drones.
Wildlife and Hunting
- Texas Administrative Code §65.152 (2005) – Drones cannot be used for hunting, capturing, or photographing wildlife without both an Aerial Management Permit (AMP) and a Land Owner Authorization (LOA).
Drone Laws in El Paso and El Paso County, Texas
Flying in El Paso comes with airspace restrictions that most drone maps do not explain. Local pilots must pay close attention to controlled, restricted, and federally monitored zones before launching.
El Paso International Airport – Class C Airspace
El Paso International Airport controls much of the city’s central airspace. Drone pilots are required to obtain FAA authorization through the LAANC system before flying in this area. This rule applies to all drones, including those flown recreationally.
Fort Bliss Military Airspace
Fort Bliss is one of the largest military installations in the United States and is surrounded by restricted airspace. Unauthorized drone flights near this boundary can result in serious federal penalties. If you are not sure where Fort Bliss airspace begins, avoid flying close to it.
Border Patrol and Federal Surveillance Zones
The southern edge of El Paso lies within a federal enforcement zone along the U.S.–Mexico border. Flying drones in this area without awareness of the boundaries may draw immediate attention from Border Patrol or other agencies. Pilots should always confirm where they are flying before takeoff.
Summary for Pilots
El Paso and El Paso County are among the most complex drone environments in Texas. The airport, Fort Bliss, and the international border all place strict limits on where you can fly. To stay safe and avoid penalties, check your map, file LAANC requests when required, and never assume an area is clear without confirming first.
Train with From Above Droneworks in El Paso, Texas
From Above Droneworks is El Paso’s FAA-certified drone training provider. We prepare pilots for FAA certification, safe airspace navigation, and real-world flight missions.
What We Provide
- FAA Part 107 Certification Prep – guided study and practice to help you pass with confidence.
- Airspace and Compliance Training – master El Paso’s unique environment, including Class C airspace, Fort Bliss, and the U.S.–Mexico border zone.
- Hands-On Flight Instruction – private lessons, commercial training, and agency sessions tailored to real operations.
Why Train With Us
We train pilots to fly with purpose, precision, and full compliance. Our mission is to protect the people behind the controller—not just the equipment.
Serving El Paso and Beyond
We are based in El Paso and train pilots across Texas—from commercial operators and public safety teams to career professionals and students ready to enter the drone industry.
Ready to start flying with confidence? Contact From Above Droneworks today for FAA drone training in El Paso.
