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League City, TX Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Key Facts

Code Section
§18-17
Wild Animals
Prohibited as pets
Exceptions
Education, licensed facilities
Max Fine
$500 per offense

Summary

League City Section 18-17 prohibits the sale, possession, or keeping of wild or exotic animals within city limits. The director may grant limited exceptions for educational institutions, circuses, and properly licensed facilities.

Sec. 822.101. DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter: ... (4) "Dangerous wild animal" means: (A) a lion; (B) a tiger; (C) an ocelot; (D) a cougar; (E) a leopard; (F) a cheetah; (G) a jaguar; (H) a bobcat; (I) a lynx; (J) a serval; (K) a caracal; (L) a hyena; (M) a bear; (N) a coyote; (O) a jackal; (P) a baboon; (Q) a chimpanzee; (R) an orangutan; (S) a gorilla; or (T) any hybrid of an animal listed in this subdivision.

Source: Chapter 18 - Animals (§18-17)View official code

Full Breakdown

Section 18-17(b) makes it unlawful to sell, possess, keep, permit, suffer, cause, or allow any wild animal within city boundaries. Section 18-17(a) states the purpose is to protect public health, safety, and welfare and to prevent the owning or harboring of wild or exotic animals as pets. The director may limit wild or exotic animals to persons with the knowledge, expertise, and facilities to care for them. Exceptions may be granted for educational institutions, licensed wildlife rehabilitators, and temporary exhibitions with proper permits. Ratites (ostriches, emus, rheas) are separately addressed. The prohibition is comprehensive and covers all exotic species not domesticated as traditional pets.

Violations & Fines

Possession of wild or exotic animal: misdemeanor, fine up to $500 per offense. Animal may be seized and relocated. Repeated violations may result in enhanced penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep an exotic pet in League City?
No. Section 18-17 prohibits possession of wild or exotic animals within city limits. Limited exceptions exist for educational and licensed facilities.
What animals are considered exotic in League City?
Any wild animal not domesticated as a traditional pet falls under the prohibition. This includes primates, large cats, venomous reptiles, and similar species.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in League City

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingFew RestrictionsParking Rules: Street Parking LimitsLight RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Quiet HoursLight RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Construction HoursLight RestrictionsDog Leash LawsHeavy RestrictionsChickens & LivestockLight RestrictionsBeekeepingLight RestrictionsWildlife FeedingFew RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Leaf Blower RulesFew RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Barking DogsLight Restrictions

All League City rules

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