Is Drone Flying Legal in Texas? (2026)
Partially — Drone Flying is legal with restrictions in Texas as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Drone flying is legal in Texas but subject to both FAA regulations and additional state laws. No significant legislative changes since the comprehensive drone laws were passed in 2013 and updated in subsequent years.
- Age restriction: 13+ for FAA registration
What the Law Says
Texas has no specific state-level laws regarding drone operation.
— FAA UAS / State Drone Laws
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State Drone Rules | Legal with FAA registration + state restrictions |
| FAA/Federal Rules | Legal to sell |
| Violation Penalties | Violations can result in FAA fines up to $27,500 civil or $250,000 criminal, plus state penalties. |
| Pilot Age Requirement | 13+ for FAA registration |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant legislative changes since the comprehensive drone laws were passed in 2013 and updated in subsequent years.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is focused on privacy and the use of drones over certain facilities. It is illegal to use a drone to capture images of an individual on private property without their consent. It is also illegal to fly over critical infrastructure facilities, correctional facilities, and sports venues.
A common mistake is flying over private property and capturing images without consent. Another is flying over restricted areas like critical infrastructure or large sports stadiums.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Texas. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Drone Flying is legal with restrictions in Texas. This product is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Texas vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, flying a drone is fully legal in 1 states, restricted in 49, and illegal in 0. Texas falls in the RESTRICTED category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Texas Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in Texas — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.