Houston, TX Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Houston Code Ch. 6, Art. III
- Rule
- Wild/exotic animals prohibited within city limits
- Exceptions
- Zoos, circuses, vet hospitals, temporary orphaned native animal permits
- Enforcement
- BARC (Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care)
- 2022 Update
- Strengthened enforcement and welfare provisions
Summary
Houston Code Chapter 6, Art. III prohibits the possession of wild or exotic animals within city limits. It is unlawful for any person to keep any wild or exotic animal upon any premises within the city, with limited exceptions for zoological parks, circuses, and veterinary hospitals.
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where a dangerous wild animal is kept or a county sheriff in an area that does not have an animal control office.(2) Repealed by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1, Sec. 3.1639(119), eff. April 2, 2015.(3) "Commercial activity" means:(A) an activity involving a dangerous wild animal conducted for profit that is not inherent to the animal's nature;(B) an activity for which a fee is charged and that is entertainment using or an exhibition of the animal; or(C) the selling, trading, bartering, or auctioning of a dangerous wild animal or a dangerous wild animal's body parts.
Full Breakdown
Under Houston Code Chapter 6, Art. III (Keeping of Wild Animals), it is unlawful to possess, keep, permit, suffer, cause, or allow any wild or exotic animal on any premises within the city. The city animal control officer may issue a temporary permit for keeping and protecting an infant animal native to the area that has been deemed homeless. Exemptions apply to zoological parks, performing animal exhibitions, circuses, and veterinary hospitals. The Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care (BARC) enforces these provisions. Chapter 6 was updated in January 2022 to strengthen animal welfare enforcement.
Violations & Fines
Violations of Chapter 6 are misdemeanors punishable by fines as set in Sec. 1-6 of the Houston Code of Ordinances. Animals may be confiscated by BARC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep an exotic pet like a monkey or snake in Houston?
What happens if I'm caught with an exotic animal in Houston?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Houston
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Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Harris County handle exotic pets.