Tomball, TX Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Chickens
- Permitted on qualifying lots with enclosures
- Roosters
- May be restricted due to noise
- Feed Storage
- Must be in rodent-proof containers
- Nuisance
- No excessive noise, odor, or unsanitary conditions
- Contact
- Development Services (281) 290-1012
Summary
Tomball regulates keeping of chickens and small livestock on residential property. Fowl and small animals may be kept on lots meeting minimum size requirements with proper enclosures and setbacks from neighboring residences under the city's animal control ordinance.
Sec. 161.041. DISEASE CONTROL. (a) The commission shall protect all livestock, domestic animals, and domestic fowl from communicable diseases. The commission may act to eradicate or control any disease or agent of transmission for any disease that affects livestock, exotic livestock, domestic fowl, or exotic fowl, regardless of whether the disease is communicable, including the disposition of animals and the substances and materials that come into contact with animals. ... The commission may regulate the entry of livestock, exotic livestock, domestic fowl, and exotic fowl into the state.
Full Breakdown
The City of Tomball regulates the keeping of chickens and small livestock under its animal control and zoning ordinances. Chickens, ducks, and similar domestic fowl may be permitted on residential lots that meet minimum lot size thresholds, with proper enclosures maintained in sanitary condition. Roosters may be restricted or prohibited due to noise concerns. Enclosures and coops must be set back from property lines and neighboring residences by specified distances to minimize impacts. Feed must be stored in rodent-proof containers. The keeping of goats, sheep, or other small livestock on residential property may require larger lot sizes or be limited to agricultural zoning districts. All animals must be kept in a humane manner and may not create a nuisance through noise, odor, or unsanitary conditions. Contact Development Services at (281) 290-1012 for lot size requirements and permitted animals in your zoning district.
Violations & Fines
Violations of animal keeping regulations result in notices from Code Enforcement with compliance deadlines. Animals creating a nuisance may be required to be removed. Fines through Municipal Court may apply for repeat violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep chickens in Tomball?
Are roosters allowed in Tomball?
Can I keep goats on my residential property in Tomball?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Tomball
How Tomball compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Tomball to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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