Native birds are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Texas Parks and Wildlife Code Chapter 64. Dallas County has no separate bird ordinance. Removing nests, eggs, or birds without a permit is a federal offense with substantial fines.
The federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act protects nearly all native bird species, prohibiting take, possession, or disturbance of birds, eggs, nests, or feathers without a US Fish and Wildlife Service permit. Texas Parks and Wildlife Code Chapter 64 layers state protection over additional species, including non-game birds. Dallas County has no separate ordinance; enforcement falls to USFWS, TPWD, and city code-compliance officers when nests appear on residential or commercial buildings. Removal during active nesting requires a federal permit; tree-trimming contractors typically schedule work outside the spring nesting window. Common conflicts involve grackles, swallows, and chimney swifts on rooftops or HVAC equipment.
MBTA violations are federal misdemeanors with fines up to fifteen thousand dollars and six months jail per offense; commercial violations can be felonies. Texas wildlife violations add state fines and license revocation; tree contractors face stop-work orders during nesting.
See how DeSoto's bird protection rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.