Denton County has no local exotic animal ordinance. TX HSC Chapter 822 Subchapter E and TX Parks & Wildlife Code Chapter 63 regulate dangerous wild animals and wildlife possession statewide.
Unincorporated Denton County relies on state law for exotic animal regulation. Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822 Subchapter E defines dangerous wild animals as lions, tigers, bears, chimpanzees, gorillas, and other specified species. Owners must register with Denton County and carry $100,000 in liability insurance. Texas Parks and Wildlife Code Chapter 63 regulates nongame wildlife possession and requires permits for certain species. TPWD issues permits for rehabilitators and educators but generally prohibits keeping native wildlife as pets. Venomous snakes are regulated separately under TPWD rules. Denton County Animal Services at 940-349-2840 responds to escaped exotic animal calls and coordinates with TPWD game wardens. Agricultural animals like emus, ostriches, and exotic livestock are not regulated as exotic pets and are common on rural Denton County properties.
Unregistered dangerous wild animal: Class C misdemeanor, fine $200-$2,000 per animal per day. Attack by dangerous wild animal causing serious injury: Class A misdemeanor, fine up to $4,000 plus one year jail. TPWD permit violations: Class C misdemeanor, fine up to $500.
Denton County, TX
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