Mansfield, TX Drone Rules: Commercial Drones (2026)

Commercial drone operations in Mansfield must comply with FAA Part 107, which requires each remote pilot in command to hold a valid Remote Pilot Certificate (earned by passing the FAA aeronautical knowledge test at an FAA testing center). Commercial operators must register each drone with the FAA, fly below 400 feet above ground level (with higher altitude permitted only within 400 feet of a structure), maintain visual line of sight, fly only during daylight or civil twilight unless operating with an FAA night waiver, and avoid flight over people or moving vehicles except as authorized under Part 107 Category rules. Flights within 5 miles of Mansfield Regional Airport or DFW International Airport require airspace authorization via the FAA LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) system. Texas Government Code Chapter 423 governs lawful image capture and provides permitted uses for commercial operators including real estate marketing, construction and engineering site surveys, agriculture, journalism, and utility inspection. Commercial operators should also secure liability insurance, obtain property owner permission for takeoff and landing sites, and respect airspace restrictions near schools, hospitals, and critical infrastructure.