Collin County, TX Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)
Key Facts
- Federal
- FAA Part 107, Remote ID
- State Law
- TX Gov Code Ch. 423
- Registration
- Over 0.55 lbs
- Airports
- McKinney TKI restrictions
- Imaging Fine
- 500-2,000 dollars
Summary
Collin County follows FAA Part 107 and the Remote ID Rule. Texas Government Code Chapter 423 limits drone imaging of private property and critical infrastructure. No countywide drone ordinance beyond state and federal law.
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.(2) "Special event" means a festival, celebration, or other gathering that:(A) involves:(i) the reservation and temporary use of all or a portion of a public park, road, or other property of a political subdivision; and(ii) entertainment, the sale of merchandise, food, or beverages, or mass participation in a sports event; and(B) requires a significant use or coordination of a political subdivision's services.(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; or(3) the use of an unmanned aircraft near a facility or infrastructure owned by the political subdivision, if the political subdivision:(A) applies for and receives authorization from the Federal Aviation Administration to adopt the regulation; and(B) after providing reasonable notice, holds a public hearing on the political subdivision's intent to apply for the authorization.(d) An ordinance, order, or other similar measure that violates Subsection (b) is void and unenforceable.
Full Breakdown
FAA requires registration of drones over 0.55 pounds at faadronezone.faa.gov. Texas Government Code Section 423.003 makes it a Class C misdemeanor to capture images of private property with intent to surveil the owner. Collin County parks generally prohibit drone launching without permit. McKinney National Airport (TKI) and the Plano Aero Country airspace create local restrictions near those fields.
Violations & Fines
Class C misdemeanor under TX Gov Code 423.003, 500 dollars. Class B misdemeanor for use of image, up to 2,000 dollars.
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Collin County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Collin County to another location·View the Texas drone rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.