Burleson, TX Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

Section 6-6 of the Burleson Code of Ordinances sets the household limit. Except as the section provides, a residence within the city cannot harbor more than four adult dogs, four adult cats, or four adult dogs and cats in any combination, and cannot harbor more than one litter of puppies or one litter of kittens at any given time. Under § 6-1 an adult dog or cat is one four months of age or older, so puppies and kittens below that age do not count toward the four.

A household that wants more applies to the animal control authority, the animal services division of the City of Burleson, for a multi-pet permit and pays an application fee when it files. The City Council sets the fee (§ 6-6(b)(2) and § 6-14(a)). The animal control authority is authorized to issue the permit only if two conditions are met. First, the applicant supplies the maximum number of animals to be kept at any one time and a record search shows no nuisance enforcement action under Chapter 6 in the preceding 12 months. Second, animal control inspects the property, including interviews with occupants of all immediately adjacent properties, and finds it appropriate for multiple pets.

The inspection criteria are specific: facilities large enough for each animal to move about freely in proportion to its height and weight; adequate food and water; a sanitary premises reasonably free of waste, parasites, insects and flies; no offensive odor; no danger to the health of the animals or adjacent animals; no offensive or disturbing noise for adjoining premises; and every animal vaccinated and wearing a current tag.

The permit is not permanent. It is renewed annually and every renewal requires inspection and approval, and animal control can revoke it for cause, including violations of Chapter 6 or an unhealthy or unsanitary environment. A permit belongs to a specific owner and a specific property. A permit holder who moves to a new residence in the city, or a new owner of the permitted property, must apply again to keep more than four adult dogs or cats or more than one litter.