San Antonio, TX Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Chapter 5 (Animals)
- Prohibited
- Primates, wolf hybrids, exotic cats, bears, skunks, raccoons
- Also Banned
- Coyotes, foxes, pot-bellied pigs, venomous species
- Allowed Pets
- Dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, similar household pets
- Enforcement
- Animal Care Services (ACS)
Summary
San Antonio prohibits keeping wild and exotic animals within city limits under Chapter 5 of the Code of Ordinances. Prohibited species include non-human primates, wolf hybrids, coyotes, foxes, exotic cats, bears, skunks, raccoons, miniature Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs, and venomous species. The city defines nondomestic animals broadly, excluding only domestic cats, dogs, ferrets, rabbits, and similar household pets.
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.
Full Breakdown
San Antonio Code Chapter 5 and Texas HSC Chapter 822, Subchapter E regulate exotic animals. Dangerous wild animals including lions, tigers, bears, chimpanzees, gorillas, and other specified species require state registration. In San Antonio, registration is handled through Animal Care Services. Texas Parks & Wildlife regulates possession of native wildlife. The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAIS) may require permits for certain exotic livestock. San Antonio's city code may impose additional restrictions on keeping certain wild or exotic animals within city limits, particularly in residential zones. HOA deed restrictions commonly prohibit exotic animals.
Violations & Fines
Unregistered dangerous wild animal: Class C misdemeanor, fine up to $500/day. Escape causing injury: felony charges possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a pet monkey in San Antonio?
Are pot-bellied pigs allowed in San Antonio?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Antonio
Texas rules heatmap·Compare San Antonio to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Bexar County handle exotic pets.