Commercial drone operations in Houston require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Texas does not add state-level commercial licensing requirements. Texas Government Code Ch. 423 restricts drone surveillance, particularly over critical infrastructure like petrochemical facilities.
Commercial drone operators in Houston must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, obtained by passing the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test ($175, 60 questions, valid 24 months). Texas does not impose additional state-level commercial licensing. Key restrictions: Government Code Ch. 423.0045 prohibits flying below 400 feet over critical infrastructure including petroleum refineries, chemical plants, natural gas facilities, and pipelines. First offense is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine); repeat offenses are Class A misdemeanors. This is particularly relevant in Houston given the Houston Ship Channel and surrounding petrochemical corridor. Houston's Class B airspace around both major airports requires LAANC authorization. Texas preempts local commercial drone regulation, so Houston cannot impose additional requirements beyond park restrictions.
FAA Part 107 violations: fines up to $250,000 and certificate revocation. Critical infrastructure flyover: Class B misdemeanor (first offense), Class A misdemeanor (subsequent). Penalties up to $4,000 and 1 year jail.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle commercial drones.
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