North Richland Hills, TX Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Dangerous wild animals
- Prohibited
- State law
- TX H&S 822.101
- Insurance required
- 100,000 dollars
- Venomous snakes
- Prohibited
- Ferrets/reptiles
- Allowed
Summary
North Richland Hills prohibits dangerous wild animals in residential zones. Texas Health and Safety Code 822.101 requires state-registered cages and liability insurance for lions, tigers, and similar species.
Sec. 822.103. CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION; FEES. (a) A person may not own, harbor, or have custody or control of a dangerous wild animal for any purpose unless the person holds a certificate of registration for that animal issued by an animal registration agency. (b) A certificate of registration issued under this subchapter is not transferrable and is valid for one year after its date of issuance or renewal unless revoked. (c) The animal registration agency may establish and charge reasonable fees for application, issuance, and renewal of a certificate of registration in order to recover the costs associated with the administration and enforcement of this subchapter.
Full Breakdown
North Richland Hills Code of Ordinances Chapter 14 prohibits keeping dangerous wild animals within the city limits. The state defines these under Texas Health and Safety Code 822.101 as lions, tigers, cougars, bears, wolves, and other big cats and large predators. Any person owning a dangerous wild animal must register with NRH Animal Services, carry at least 100,000 dollars liability insurance, and meet USDA cage standards. Reptiles such as venomous snakes are banned under Texas Parks and Wildlife Code Chapter 43, Subchapter R, which also covers crocodilians. Common exotic pets such as ferrets (legal statewide), reptiles, parrots, sugar gliders, and hedgehogs are generally allowed without special permits. Monkeys and primates are prohibited. Residents should also check Texas Department of Agriculture rules for rabbits and poultry, and federal CITES rules for endangered species. Enforcement is through Animal Services at (817) 427-6570.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own a monkey in NRH?
Are venomous snakes legal?
Are ferrets legal?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in North Richland Hills
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