Williamson County, TX Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Hen Limit
- None unincorporated
- Range
- Closed, must contain
- Highway Roaming
- Class C misdemeanor
- HOAs
- Often ban livestock
Summary
Unincorporated Williamson County sets no hen limit and allows backyard chickens and livestock. The county has adopted a stock law, so owners must fence livestock in; letting animals roam a state or U.S. highway is an offense under Texas law.
A person who owns or has responsibility for the control of a horse, mule, donkey, cow, bull, steer, hog, sheep, or goat may not knowingly permit the animal to traverse or roam at large, unattended, on the right-of-way of a highway.
Full Breakdown
Williamson County has no zoning and no cap on chickens or other livestock in unincorporated areas, and roosters are allowed. The binding rule is containment. The county sits under an adopted stock law (closed range) for cattle, horses, sheep, and goats, making each owner responsible for fencing their animals in. Agriculture Code Section 143.102 separately makes it an offense to knowingly permit a horse, cow, hog, sheep, or goat to roam at large on a U.S. or state highway right-of-way. HOA deed restrictions in subdivisions frequently ban livestock and limit or prohibit poultry.
Violations & Fines
Permitting covered livestock to roam a state or U.S. highway is a Class C misdemeanor and can make the owner liable for collision damages. Loose animals are impounded by animal control; HOAs enforce their own poultry and livestock bans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep chickens in unincorporated Williamson County?
Am I liable if my cattle get onto the road?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Williamson County
How Williamson County compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Williamson County to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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