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.
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 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.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle exotic pets.
See how Houston's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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