San Antonio, TX Animal Ordinances: Mandatory Spay/Neuter (2026)
Key Facts
- Authority
- SAMC Section 5-26
- Age trigger
- Six months and older
- Permit option
- Annual Intact Animal Permit
- Lead agency
- Animal Care Services
- Maximum fine
- Up to 500 dollars
Summary
San Antonio is one of the strongest mandatory spay-neuter cities in Texas. SAMC Section 5-26 requires all dogs and cats over six months to be sterilized unless owners hold an Intact Animal Permit. ACS enforces with citations and impoundment of unaltered animals.
Except as provided by Section 828.013, a releasing agency may not release a dog or cat for adoption unless the animal has been sterilized or the release is made to a new owner who signs an agreement to have the animal sterilized. Added by
Full Breakdown
San Antonio Municipal Code Section 5-26 imposes a citywide mandate that all dogs and cats six months or older be sterilized. Owners who wish to keep an intact animal must apply for an annual Intact Animal Permit from Animal Care Services, satisfy housing and identification standards, and pay a higher fee. Show animals, working dogs, breed-registered dogs used for legitimate breeding, and animals with veterinary medical exemptions can qualify, but the bar is strict and ACS audits permit holders. Adopted shelter animals are altered before release. Repeat violators face escalating penalties and may be ordered to surrender or sterilize the animal under court order.
Violations & Fines
Owning an intact dog or cat over six months without a permit is a Class C misdemeanor under SAMC 5-26, with fines up to 500 dollars per violation. ACS may also impound unaltered animals and revoke permits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep my dog intact in San Antonio?
Are show or breed dogs exempt?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Antonio
Texas rules heatmap·Compare San Antonio to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Mandatory Spay/Neuter in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Bexar County handle mandatory spay/neuter.