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Conroe, TX Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 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.

Source: Montgomery County Animal ControlView official code

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?
Some exotic pets are regulated under the Montgomery County Wild and Dangerous Animal Ordinance and state law. Contact MCAS at 936-442-7738 for species-specific guidance.
Can I own a big cat or primate in Conroe?
Dangerous wild animals like lions, tigers, bears, and great apes are regulated under TX HSC Ch. 822, Subch. E and require registration with Montgomery County Animal Control.
Are snakes and reptiles legal in Conroe?
Non-venomous reptiles are generally permitted. Venomous snakes and certain species are regulated by Texas Parks and Wildlife. Nuisance conditions may still trigger Chapter 26 citations.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Conroe

All Conroe rules

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