Plano, TX Animal Ordinances: Coyote Management (2026)

City Code of Ordinances Sec. 4-27 governs how any animal, including coyotes, may be trapped within Plano. Subsection (a) requires that only humane traps be used, on public or private property, and puts responsibility on whoever places or requests the trap for daily checks, care of the trapped animal, and notifying the Animal Services Department of any capture; no trap may go unchecked for more than 24 hours. Subsection (c) lists specific offenses: placing or baiting a "steel-jawed trap (commonly known as a 'bear trap,' 'wolf trap,' 'leg hold trap,' or 'coyote trap')," a body-hold ("connibear") trap, a snare, or any noose-type or other lethal/injurious trap is a criminal offense, as is placing poisoned or toxic bait, including antifreeze, anywhere accessible to people or animals with intent to kill or harm.

Trapping when the overnight low is expected to fall below 40 degrees Fahrenheit requires prior written Animal Services permission, as does trapping in any highway, street, alley, or other public place. Captured wild animals must be turned over to the department, a wildlife educational center, or a state-licensed wildlife rehabilitator within 24 hours. An exception in subsection (e) allows ordinary pest control against rats, mice and insects on one's own property using commercially available means per label directions. Sec. 4-27 does not create a citywide coyote hazing or feeding-prohibition program; it regulates trap type, placement and humane handling rather than establishing a management/cull policy. Violations are enforced by the Animal Services Department and any illegally set trap may be confiscated and held as evidence under subsection (d).