Mesquite prohibits dangerous wild animals including big cats, bears, wolves, and venomous reptiles, consistent with Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 822.
Mesquite prohibits ownership of dangerous wild animals as defined by Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 822, Subchapter E. Banned species include lions, tigers, cougars, leopards, cheetahs, bears, wolves, hyenas, gorillas, chimpanzees, baboons, elephants, rhinos, hippos, alligators, crocodiles, and venomous snakes. Texas Parks & Wildlife Code Chapter 63 also restricts native wildlife. Common pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, hamsters, non-venomous snakes, and aquarium fish are allowed. USDA-licensed exhibitors and accredited zoos may be exempt with proper documentation. Violations can result in animal seizure, citations, and municipal court fines up to $2,000 per offense.
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.
Mesquite, TX
Mesquite allows gas-powered leaf blowers and lawn equipment during daytime hours, generally 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., with no city-wide gas blower ban.
Mesquite, TX
Outdoor music in Mesquite is allowed but cannot be plainly audible at neighboring residences after 10 p.m.; commercial venues need special event permits.
Mesquite, TX
Commercial vehicles over 1 ton or with commercial markings cannot park on Mesquite residential streets overnight; semi-trucks and trailers face stricter limits.
Mesquite, TX
Overnight on-street parking is generally allowed in Mesquite where not signed otherwise, but vehicles cannot remain in the same spot for more than 48-72 hours.
Mesquite, TX
On-street parking in Mesquite is allowed where not signed otherwise; vehicles must park with the flow of traffic and cannot block driveways, hydrants, or sig...
Mesquite, TX
Mesquite limits residential fences to 8 feet in rear/side yards and 4 feet in front yards, with corner-lot visibility triangles enforced for traffic safety.
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Dallas County.
See how other cities in Dallas County handle exotic pets.
See how Mesquite's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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