Can You Shoot Down A Drone In Texas On Your Own Property?

It starts as a slight buzzing noise. Then you hear the sound of a thousand bees all at once coming toward you.

It's the tell-tell sign that someone is operating a drone above your property. Your first instinct is to protect your family and privacy.

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Before you grab your trusty pew-pew of choice in Texas, you might want to know if it is legal. There are state and federal laws that regulate the use of drones.

You Likely Don't Own The Airspace Above Your House

In Texas, the law is all about the intent. You could press charges if someone is flying that drone over your house and taking video inside a window.

If that drone were to damage your personage or property, you could sue them. The drone pilot might be violating one or more local laws, so before you take matters into your own hands, give the local police department a call.

According to stephenslaw.com drones are considered aircraft. There are federal laws that prohibit the destruction of aircraft.

Don't Shoot First And Ask Questions Later

Personal injury claims in Texas have a statute of limitations two years after an injury occurred. If you were injured by a drone, even in the past, you can seek damages.

Knowing your property rights is half the battle. If a drone is becoming a nuisance, see if you can find the operator in the neighborhood.

Read More: 7 Things Not To Have In Your Car In Texas 

They usually don't want heat, so politely tell them to back off. That's how you handle things in Texas if you want to stay out of jail.

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