Conroe, TX Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- County Ordinance
- Wild and Dangerous Animal Ordinance
- State Law
- TX HSC Ch. 822, Subch. E
- Registration
- Required for dangerous wild animals
- Enforcement
- MCAS (936-442-7738)
Summary
Montgomery County has a Wild and Dangerous Animal Ordinance enforced by MCAS. State law (TX HSC Chapter 822, Subchapter E) regulates dangerous wild animals including lions, tigers, bears, and great apes. Local permits may apply.
Sec. 822.101. DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter: ... (4) "Dangerous wild animal" means: (A) a lion; (B) a tiger; (C) an ocelot; (D) a cougar; (E) a leopard; (F) a cheetah; (G) a jaguar; (H) a bobcat; (I) a lynx; (J) a serval; (K) a caracal; (L) a hyena; (M) a bear; (N) a coyote; (O) a jackal; (P) a baboon; (Q) a chimpanzee; (R) an orangutan; (S) a gorilla; or (T) any hybrid of an animal listed in this subdivision. ... (5) "Owner" means any person who owns, harbors, or has custody or control of a dangerous wild animal. (7) "Primary enclosure" means any structure used to immediately restrict an animal to a limited amount of space, including a cage, pen, run, room, compartment, or hutch.
Full Breakdown
Montgomery County Animal Control Authority enforces the Montgomery County Wild and Dangerous Animal Ordinance, which applies in Conroe. Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822, Subchapter E regulates dangerous wild animals including lions, tigers, bears, great apes, and other specified species, requiring registration with local animal control. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department also regulates certain exotic species. Conroe's Chapter 10 (Animals) addresses animals that create a nuisance. Any exotic pet creating noise, odor, or safety concerns for neighbors may be cited under the nuisance provisions of Chapter 26.
Violations & Fines
Possessing an unregistered dangerous wild animal is a Class C misdemeanor under state law. Nuisance citations up to $2,000 locally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own an exotic pet in Conroe?
Can I own a big cat or primate in Conroe?
Are snakes and reptiles legal in Conroe?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Conroe
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Conroe to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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