Commercial drone operations in Harris County follow FAA Part 107 regulations exclusively. Harris County has no local commercial drone ordinance. Pilots need a Remote Pilot Certificate. Texas preempts local drone regulation under Government Code Chapter 423.
Commercial drone operations in unincorporated Harris County are governed entirely by FAA Part 107 rules. Requirements include a Remote Pilot Certificate, drone registration, operations below 400 feet AGL, daylight flying (or with anti-collision lighting), maximum 55 lbs, and visual line of sight. Waivers are available for beyond-visual-line-of-sight and night operations. Much of Harris County requires LAANC authorization due to proximity to IAH and HOU airports. Texas Government Code Chapter 423 preempts local drone regulation while imposing privacy restrictions on drone surveillance.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Harris County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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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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