Converse, TX Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Dangerous wild animals
- Prohibited in residential zones
- State framework
- Texas H&S 822 Subchapter E
- Insurance if allowed
- 100,000 dollars minimum
- Venomous reptiles
- TPWD permit, often prohibited
- Native wildlife
- Not permitted as pets
Summary
Converse prohibits dangerous wild animals in residential areas under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822 Subchapter E. Large carnivores, primates, and venomous snakes require state and sometimes federal permits.
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.
Full Breakdown
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own a ferret or hedgehog?
What about a boa constrictor?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Converse
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Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Bexar County handle exotic pets.