San Angelo, TX Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Prohibited
- Big cats, primates, venomous reptiles
- Allowed
- Hamsters, guinea pigs, gerbils, ferrets
- Potbellied Pigs
- Allowed, vaccinated
- State Law
- Tex. HSC sec. 822.101
Summary
San Angelo bans keeping "prohibited animals" under Code section 3.01.011, a list covering venomous reptiles, big cats, wolves, bears, primates, and more. Hamsters, guinea pigs, gerbils, ferrets, and potbellied pigs are allowed.
Prohibition. It shall be unlawful for any person to own, possess, exhibit or harbor a prohibited animal within the city.(b)Exceptions. If the animal is restrained from inflicting injury upon persons, property or other animals and adequate provision is made for the protection of the animal, the provisions of this section are not applicable to the following:(1)The permanent possession, exhibition or harboring of hamsters, guinea pigs or gerbils;
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 10).
Full Breakdown
Code section 3.01.011 makes it unlawful to own, possess, exhibit, or harbor a "prohibited animal" in the city. The section 3.01.001 definition sweeps in venomous snakes and lizards, crocodilians, big cats, wolves, coyotes, foxes, bears, primates, elephants, and other wild species. Hamsters, guinea pigs, and gerbils are expressly allowed to be kept permanently, and ferrets, armadillos, and potbellied pigs fall outside the prohibited list. Zoos, circuses, veterinarians, and research institutions get narrow temporary exceptions. Texas Health and Safety Code section 822.101 separately governs dangerous wild animals. Animal Services can seize a prohibited animal and file charges in municipal court.
Violations & Fines
A prohibited animal can be impounded immediately, with a summons to municipal court within ten days. Fines follow section 1.01.009, and the city may remove the animal from the city limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own a ferret or a pet monkey?
What happens if I keep a banned animal?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Angelo
Texas rules heatmap·Compare San Angelo to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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