Unincorporated Tarrant County allows livestock without numeric limits, but is a closed range jurisdiction requiring containment. TX Agriculture Code governs straying livestock and brand registration.
Livestock keeping is fully permitted in unincorporated Tarrant County, reflecting the areas history as ranching country on the edge of the DFW metroplex. There is no county permit, minimum acreage, or numeric cap. Tarrant County is a closed range county under the Texas Agriculture Code, meaning owners are legally responsible for containing their animals. Owners of livestock that escape onto roads or neighboring property are subject to impoundment procedures under Agriculture Code Chapter 142 and civil liability for damages. Brand and earmark registration is filed at the Tarrant County Clerk under Agriculture Code Chapter 144. Agricultural use valuation through the Tarrant Appraisal District can provide significant property tax savings for qualifying parcels. Cities within the county often restrict or prohibit livestock in urban zoning districts.
Estray procedures under TX Ag Code Ch. 142. Civil liability for damage from escaped livestock. Criminal neglect or cruelty prosecuted under TX H&S Code 821 and Penal Code 42.09.
See how Tarrant County's livestock rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.