Converse, TX Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

Converse Municipal Code restricts traditional livestock to agricultural or rural residential zoning districts, typically on parcels of 1 acre or more. Minimum acreage per animal varies by species: horses and cattle generally require 1 acre for the first animal plus 0.5 acre per additional animal; goats and sheep about 0.25 acre each; swine are most restricted because of odor and water quality concerns. Shelters, barns, and paddocks must be set back 50 feet or more from neighboring dwellings. Fencing must meet Texas fence-out rules in open-range areas but Bexar County is largely closed-range, placing the containment burden on the livestock owner. Manure must be managed to prevent runoff to drainages and neighboring properties; large operations may require TCEQ concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) permits. 4-H and FFA project animals are commonly accommodated on residential-agricultural lots with temporary variances. The Converse extraterritorial jurisdiction extends city rules to adjacent unincorporated areas; confirm jurisdiction before establishing livestock.