Dallas, TX Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Ch. 7, Art. VI, Sec. 7-6.1
- Prohibition
- Unlawful to keep prohibited animals as pets
- State Law
- TX Health & Safety Code Ch. 822, Subch. E
- Exceptions
- Licensed facilities, vets, humane societies, State Fair exhibitors
Summary
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.
Sec. 822.101. DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter:(1) "Animal registration agency" means the municipal or county animal control office with authority over the area where a dangerous wild animal is kept or a county sheriff in an area that does not have an animal control office.(2) Repealed by
Full Breakdown
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.
Violations & Fines
Keeping prohibited animals: impoundment and fines. No TPWD permit: state enforcement. Dangerous animal escapes: criminal liability. Nuisance conditions: separate citations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep an exotic animal as a pet in Dallas?
What state law applies to exotic pets in Texas?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dallas
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Dallas to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle exotic pets.