Baytown, TX Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

Sec. 14-1 defines a kennel as any lot, building, structure, enclosure, or premises where four or more adult dogs are kept, or any premises used for boarding, breeding, buying, hiring out, training for a fee, or selling dogs, cats, or other animals. Once that threshold is crossed, Sec. 14-126 makes it unlawful to operate or maintain a kennel without a license. An applicant must show the amount of space available, the number of dogs to be kept, a structure suitable for humane restraint, proof all city taxes are paid, and a passed inspection by animal services or the health department under Sec.

14-127. Sec. 14-96 bars locating a kennel within 100 feet of a private residence the operator has no right to occupy, or within 300 feet of a church, school, hospital, or public place where food is sold, though Sec. 14-129 exempts a structure already operating as a kennel before January 12, 1984. The annual license fee, set in Sec. 14-174, runs $100 for fewer than 11 dogs, $150 for 11 to 19 dogs, and $200 for 20 or more, and every license expires December 31 regardless of when it issued, per Sec. 14-131.