DeSoto prohibits keeping dangerous wild animals as pets within city limits. Under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822 Subchapter E, dangerous wild animals (lions, tigers, bears, non-human primate
DeSoto prohibits keeping dangerous wild animals as pets within city limits. Under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822 Subchapter E, dangerous wild animals (lions, tigers, bears, non-human primates, wolves, venomous reptiles) require state registration and are banned from most residential settings. Texas Parks & Wildlife Code Chapter 63 further regulates native species. Common exotics like non-venomous reptiles, small birds, ferrets (legal in Texas), and rodents are generally allowed. Anything beyond common pets should be verified with DeSoto Animal Services.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
DeSoto, TX
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Dallas County.
See how other cities in Dallas County handle exotic pets.
See how DeSoto's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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