Carrollton vs Dallas
How do recreational drones rules compare between Carrollton, TX and Dallas, TX?
Dallas has fewer restrictions than Carrollton.
Carrollton, TX
Dallas County
Carrollton recreational drone use is governed by FAA rules and local ordinances. Drones under 55 lbs must be registered with the FAA. No flying near airports.
View full Carrollton rules →Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Texas Government Code Chapter 423.009(b) preempts municipalities from adopting ordinances regulating unmanned aircraft operations, making any such local ordinance void and unenforceable. Dallas cannot regulate recreational drone flight paths. Cities retain authority to regulate takeoffs and landings on city-owned property such as parks. FAA rules require recreational flyers to pass the TRUST test, register drones over 0.55 lbs, fly below 400 feet, maintain visual line of sight, and comply with Remote ID requirements.
View full Dallas rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carrollton | Dallas |
|---|---|---|
| Registration | FAA required if over 0.55 lbs | - |
| Max Altitude | 400 feet AGL | - |
| Airports | Restricted airspace, no fly | - |
| TRUST Test | Required for all flyers | - |
| State Preemption | - | TX Gov't Code Ch. 423.009(b) |
| Local Authority | - | Takeoff/landing on city property only |
| FAA Requirements | - | TRUST test, registration, Remote ID |
| Altitude Limit | - | 400 feet AGL |
| Airspace | - | LAANC authorization for Class B (Love Field) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carrollton FAQ
Do I need to register my drone?
Yes, drones over 0.55 lbs must be registered with the FAA. Cost is $5 for 3 years.
Can I fly in Carrollton parks?
Many parks restrict or prohibit drones. Check Carrollton parks department for specific rules.
Dallas FAQ
Can Dallas regulate where I fly my drone?
No. Texas Government Code Ch. 423.009(b) preempts local drone flight regulations. Dallas can only regulate takeoffs and landings on city-owned property like parks.
What do I need to fly a drone recreationally in Dallas?
Pass the FAA TRUST test, register your drone if over 0.55 lbs, fly below 400 feet, maintain visual line of sight, and use LAANC for authorization near Love Field (Class B airspace).
Compare other topics
See how Carrollton and Dallas compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool