San Marcos, TX Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Rule
- Unlawful to keep wild animal in city
- Citation
- City Code Sec. 6.071
- Exceptions
- Permitted zoos, dealers, educational centers only
- Sale ban
- Sec. 6.072 bars sale/transfer
Summary
San Marcos outlaws keeping dangerous wild animals or exotic pets like big cats, primates, and venomous reptiles within city limits, with only narrow permitted exceptions.
It shall be unlawful to keep any wild animal within the city limits of San Marcos, with the following exceptions... A governmental agency or entity acting in an official capacity; A government-operated zoological park; A permitted wildlife educational center, animal exhibitions with valid state or federal permits; or A holder of an animal dealer or animal establishment with a wild animal permit.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 41).
Full Breakdown
City Code Sec. 6.071 makes it unlawful to keep any wild animal in San Marcos. The definition of "dangerous wild animal" in Sec. 6.061 sweeps in lions, tigers, ocelots, bears, wolves, coyotes, primates, venomous reptiles, crocodilians, and kangaroos, among others. Exceptions are narrow: pre-existing permitted facilities, government agencies, government zoos, permitted wildlife educational centers or exhibitions, and licensed animal dealers/establishments holding a wild animal permit, all still require state and federal permits. Sec. 6.072 separately bans selling or giving away a dangerous wild animal.
Violations & Fines
Unlawful to keep; animal services may seize under warrant, and the animal can be ordered removed, permanently confiscated, or euthanized under the chapter's enforcement provisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own a pet tiger or monkey in San Marcos?
What counts as a dangerous wild animal?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Marcos
Texas rules heatmap·Compare San Marcos to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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