Converse, TX Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822 Subchapter E governs dangerous wild animals (lions, tigers, bears, primates, hyenas, certain large cats) and requires owners to register with local animal control and carry 100,000 dollars liability insurance. Converse does not permit dangerous wild animals in residential zones regardless of state registration. Venomous reptiles including rattlesnakes, cottonmouths, and exotic venomous species require Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) non-game permits and may be prohibited in residential areas. Common exotic pets permitted with standard ownership include reptiles (non-venomous), small mammals (hedgehogs, sugar gliders, chinchillas), ferrets, and tropical birds. Native Texas wildlife (raccoons, opossums, squirrels, skunks) generally cannot be kept as pets without rehabilitation permits. Federal Lacey Act and USDA rules apply to imported species. Constrictor snakes (Burmese pythons, reticulated pythons, anacondas) are restricted under Texas rules. Exotic mammals on agricultural land (zebras, antelope) fall under ranching rather than pet rules.