How Garland Handles Drone Rules: A Practical Guide

Garland maintains 154 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with drone rules. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Garland falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Recreational Drones

Recreational drone use in Garland is governed by FAA regulations. Texas Government Code Chapter 423 restricts drone surveillance over private property. Drones must be registered, flown below 400 feet, and kept within visual line of sight. Garland is near Dallas Love Field and DFW Airport, creating controlled airspace requiring LAANC authorization in some areas.

Key details: State Law: TX Gov't Code Ch. 423. FAA Registration: Required for drones 0.55-55 lbs. Altitude: Below 400 ft AGL. Airspace: Check for DFW/Love Field restrictions. LAANC: May be required in some areas.

FAA violations: $1,000 to $27,500 per incident. Local park violations: $50 to $500. Reckless operation near airports: criminal penalties.

Commercial Drones

Commercial drone operations in Garland require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Operators must check airspace near DFW and Love Field airports. Texas provides exemptions for licensed real estate brokers, insurance adjusters, and utilities while maintaining privacy protections.

Key details: License: FAA Part 107 required. Airspace: Check DFW/Love Field restrictions. TX Exemptions: Real estate, insurance, utilities. Hours: Civil twilight to civil twilight. Weight: Under 55 lbs.

Operating commercially without Part 107: FAA fines up to $32,666. Local permit violations: $100 to $1,000. Unauthorized airspace entry: federal criminal penalties.

The Bottom Line

Garland's drone rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Garland is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Garland's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.