Baytown, TX Drone Rules: Commercial Drones (2026)

Commercial drone operations in Baytown are governed by FAA 14 CFR Part 107. Operators must hold a Remote Pilot Certificate issued by the FAA, which requires passing a knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center. All commercial drones must be registered with the FAA regardless of weight. Standard Part 107 rules include flying below 400 feet AGL, within visual line of sight, during daylight or civil twilight with anti-collision lighting, and not over people unless using approved category equipment. Baytown's industrial corridor, including the ExxonMobil Baytown refinery complex and petrochemical facilities, creates restricted areas where drone operations require heightened security coordination. Commercial operators may need to coordinate with facility security managers. Flights in controlled airspace near Houston airports require LAANC authorization or airspace waiver. For commercial drone use over city property, public parks, or at special events, the city may require a permit or prior approval from the relevant department. Commercial drone surveillance operations must comply with Texas Government Code Section 423. Insurance requirements may apply for commercial operations over public property. Contact Baytown Planning and Development at (281) 420-6530 for city permit requirements.