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Dallas County, TX Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Regulation
FAA + TX Gov Code Ch. 423
Local Ordinances
Preempted by state law
TRUST Test
Required for recreational
Max Altitude
400 feet AGL

Summary

FAA regulations govern recreational drone use. Texas Government Code Chapter 423 preempts local drone ordinances. Counties cannot create separate drone rules. FAA TRUST test required. Standard FAA rules apply.

City-specific rules exist: Mesquite, Cedar Hill, Carrollton, Dallas, Grand Prairie, and Richardson have their own recreational drones rules that differ from Dallas County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Sec. 423.009. REGULATION OF UNMANNED AIRCRAFT BY POLITICAL SUBDIVISION. (a) In this section: (1) "Political subdivision" includes a county, a joint board created under Section 22.074, Transportation Code, and a municipality ... (b) Except as provided by Subsection (c), a political subdivision may not adopt or enforce any ordinance, order, or other similar measure regarding the operation of an unmanned aircraft. (c) A political subdivision may adopt and enforce an ordinance, order, or other similar measure regarding: (1) the use of an unmanned aircraft during a special event; (2) the political subdivision's use of an unmanned aircraft.

Source: TX Gov Code Chapter 423View official code

Full Breakdown

Recreational drone use in unincorporated Dallas County is governed by federal FAA regulations and Texas Government Code Chapter 423. Texas law preempts local governments from creating their own drone ordinances. Recreational operators must pass the FAA Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and follow FAA rules: fly below 400 feet, maintain visual line of sight, avoid airports and restricted airspace, yield to manned aircraft, and do not fly over people. Political subdivisions may regulate takeoffs and landings on property they own. Dallas County has no county-specific drone ordinances.

Violations & Fines

FAA enforcement for airspace violations. TX Gov Code Section 423.003 prohibits drone surveillance (Class C misdemeanor).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly a drone in unincorporated Dallas County?
Yes, following FAA rules. Obtain TRUST certification, fly below 400 feet, maintain line of sight, and avoid restricted airspace. The county has no additional restrictions.
Can I fly a drone over my neighbor's property?
FAA does not prohibit it, but Texas Government Code §423.003 prohibits capturing images of people or private property with intent to conduct surveillance.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Dallas County

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All Dallas County rules

Texas rules heatmap·Compare Dallas County to another location·View the Texas drone rules overview

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Recreational Drones in Cities Across Dallas County

Dallas, TXIrving, TXGarland, TXGrand Prairie, TXMesquite, TXRichardson, TXDeSoto, TXCedar Hill, TXCarrollton, TX