Texas Government Code Chapter 423 preempts local commercial drone rules and FAA Part 107 governs commercial flight nationwide. Texas cities cannot require their own drone permits or fees for Part 107 operators delivering or surveying.
Commercial drone operations in Texas are dual-regulated. The FAA's 14 CFR Part 107 requires a Remote Pilot Certificate, registration, Remote ID, and adherence to airspace rules including LAANC authorizations near airports. On top of federal rules, Texas Government Code Chapter 423 preempts most local regulation while creating state offenses for unlawful surveillance, flight over correctional facilities, and operations near critical infrastructure. Section 423.009 prevents cities from imposing their own permitting schemes on commercial drone work. Cities retain limited authority to manage takeoff and landing on city-owned land and to enforce trespass, noise, and reckless-conduct laws of general applicability.
FAA violations include civil penalties up to $32,666 per violation. Texas surveillance offenses are Class B/A misdemeanors and capital-infrastructure offenses can be state-jail felonies.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Stafford, TX
Stafford does not publish a dedicated municipal 'quiet hours' chapter the way many Texas cities do. Day-to-day noise enforcement in the city relies on two la...
Stafford, TX
Stafford requires swimming pools to be enclosed by compliant barriers with self-closing, self-latching gates to prevent accidental access by children.
Stafford, TX
Stafford requires building permits for new fences and major fence replacements, with applications reviewed for height, location, and material compliance with...
Stafford, TX
Stafford limits residential fence heights, with stricter rules along front yards and corner-lot sight triangles to preserve visibility and neighborhood chara...
Stafford, TX
Stafford requires property owners to keep lots clear of high weeds, brush, and rubbish that create fire or health nuisances, enforced through the General Cod...
Stafford, TX
Stafford prohibits the possession, sale, and use of fireworks anywhere within city limits, with exceptions only for permitted professional public displays ap...
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