New Drone for Christmas? Read This Before Flying in Texas
Drones are increasingly popular holiday gifts not only in Texas, but all over the country.
However, if you're in Texas or plan to fly one here, it's important to understand what is legal and what could get you in trouble.
Yes, there are rules you must follow as a drone operator, which may seem like a toy, but can definitely get you in trouble if you do the wrong thing.
Drone Rules According to the Federal Government
Drones are more affordable than ever, making them a likely gift for Christmas.
At the federal level, the FAA governs where drones can fly, how high, and whether you need to register yours.
However, Texas has added its own layer of rules under its Use of Unmanned Aircraft Act (Chapter 423 of the Government Code), and some of them are pretty strict.
It is illegal under state law to fly a drone over certain critical infrastructure sites—such as power plants, prisons, or oil refineries—at altitudes below 400 feet.
Drone Laws Specifically Aimed at Texas Residents
Surprisingly, Texas has restrictions on what images you can capture from your drone.
The law prohibits using a drone to photograph private property or individuals on private property with the intent to conduct surveillance.
If you capture those images illegally and then share or display them, that could be a criminal offense. This applies even if you delete the photos later on.
Many state parks in Texas have regulations regarding drone flights.
Most parks prohibit drone takeoff or landing without a permit, while a few, such as Lake Whitney and San Angelo, offer designated zones for remote-controlled aircraft.
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If you're thinking about giving or getting a drone for Christmas, these state-level rules are worth knowing.
Flying into restricted areas or recording without permission can land you in legal hot water.
Make sure you’re aware of both FAA requirements and Texas’s unique drone laws before you take off.
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