Drone Rules in Dallas County, TX (2026)

4 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 8 cities in Dallas County, Texas.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Dallas County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply — see the city list below.

Recreational Drones

FAA regulations govern recreational drone use. Texas Government Code Chapter 423 preempts local drone ordinances. Counties cannot create separate drone rules. FAA TRUST test required. Standard FAA rules apply.

Unincorporated Dallas County Recreational Drones

Few Restrictions

Tex. Gov't Code Sec. 423.009(b),(c) — State Preemption of Local Drone Rules

Sec. 423.009. REGULATION OF UNMANNED AIRCRAFT BY POLITICAL SUBDIVISION. (a) In this section: (1) "Political subdivision" includes a county, a joint board created under Section 22.074, Transportation Code, and a municipality ... (b) Except as provided by Subsection (c), a political subdivision may not adopt or enforce any ordinance, order, or other similar measure regarding the operation of an u...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Commercial Drones

FAA Part 107 certification required for commercial drone operations. Texas preempts local drone ordinances. TX Gov Code Section 423.003 restricts drone surveillance. No county permits or fees.

Unincorporated Dallas County Commercial Drones

Some Restrictions

14 CFR Part 107 (FAA Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Rule)

The Operations Over People rule became effective on April 21, 2021. Drone pilots operating under Part 107 may fly at night, over people and moving vehicles without a waiver as long as they meet the requirements defined in the rule. Airspace authorizations are still required for night operations in controlled airspace under 400 feet. If you have a small drone that is less than 55 pounds, you can...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Park Drone Restrictions

Dallas County Parks generally prohibit recreational drone takeoff and landing without authorization. The FAA preempts airspace regulation, but counties may restrict ground-based drone operations on park property they own.

Drone Use in Dallas County Parks Restricted

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Airport Proximity Rules

Drone flights near DFW International, Dallas Love Field, and Addison Airport require FAA authorization through LAANC or DroneZone. Controlled airspace covers most of Dallas County. Recreational and commercial pilots must request approval.