Live Oak, TX Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)

Recreational drone flight in Live Oak is subject to federal FAA rules under 49 USC 44809 (Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft), state restrictions under Texas Government Code Chapter 423, and special considerations due to proximity of Randolph Air Force Base located in adjacent Universal City. FAA rules require recreational pilots to register drones weighing more than 0.55 pounds, pass the FAA TRUST safety test, fly within visual line of sight, stay below 400 feet, yield to manned aircraft, and avoid flying over people or moving vehicles. Live Oak sits within or near the Class D airspace and the restricted operating zones for Randolph AFB; recreational flights within 5 miles of the base runway require LAANC authorization through apps like Aloft or Kittyhawk. Texas Government Code 423 prohibits drone surveillance of private property for the purpose of capturing images without owner consent (with exceptions for property owners, law enforcement, and licensed professionals). Flying over city parks, schools, and public events may require prior authorization from Live Oak Police. Recreational pilots may not operate drones to harass, stalk, or invade privacy.