Dallas City Code Chapter 7, Article VI, Sec. 7-6.1 prohibits the keeping of certain dangerous or exotic animals as pets. It is unlawful to sell, exchange, give away, or transfer a prohibited animal in the city for use as a pet. Defenses include being a licensed facility, veterinarian, humane society, or exhibitor at the State Fair with proper permits. Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822, Subchapter E further regulates dangerous wild animals at the state level.
Dallas Code Chapter 7 restricts keeping wild, dangerous, and exotic animals. Venomous snakes, large cats, bears, primates, and other dangerous animals are prohibited in residential areas. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) regulates exotic wildlife through its permit system. Certain species require permits regardless of local rules. Non-native wildlife requires appropriate TPWD permits. Exotic animals creating nuisance conditions are addressed through animal control and Chapter 30 noise provisions.
Keeping prohibited animals: impoundment and fines. No TPWD permit: state enforcement. Dangerous animal escapes: criminal liability. Nuisance conditions: separate citations.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Dallas County.
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