Baytown, TX Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)

Recreational drone operation in Baytown is primarily regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration under 14 CFR Part 107 and the Exception for Recreational Flyers (Section 44809). Drones weighing more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams) must be registered with the FAA. All recreational pilots must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) before flying. Drones must stay below 400 feet AGL and within the pilot's visual line of sight. Baytown's proximity to the ExxonMobil Baytown refinery complex, Covestro, and other major industrial facilities creates sensitive airspace areas. Flying near or over industrial facilities is prohibited for safety and security reasons. Houston Hobby Airport and William P. Hobby controlled airspace may affect flights in portions of the area — pilots must check for LAANC authorization requirements. Flying over city parks and public facilities may require advance permission from the Parks and Recreation Department. Drones cannot be flown over people not participating in the operation, over moving vehicles, or at night without proper lighting. Texas Government Code Section 423 restricts drone use for surveillance of private property without consent. Contact Baytown PD at (281) 422-8371 to report unsafe drone operations.