Fort Worth, TX Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Primary statute
- TX Penal Code 42.092 cruelty
- Seizure authority
- TX Health Safety Code 821
- Lead agency
- FW Animal Care and Control
- Misdemeanor penalty
- Up to one year jail
- Felony trigger
- Torture or repeat offense
Summary
Fort Worth Animal Care and Control investigates suspected hoarding under City Code Chapter 6 and Texas Penal Code 42.092. Officers may seize neglected animals, file misdemeanor or felony charges, and seek court-ordered relinquishment of all animals.
Sec. 821.002. TREATMENT OF IMPOUNDED ANIMALS. (a) A person who impounds or causes the impoundment of an animal under state law or municipal ordinance shall supply the animal with sufficient wholesome food and water during its confinement.(b) If an animal impounded under Subsection (a) continues to be without necessary food and water for more than 12 successive hours, any person may enter the pound or corral as often as necessary to supply the animal with necessary food and water. That person may recover the reasonable cost of the food and water from the owner of the animal.
Full Breakdown
Fort Worth does not set a numeric hoarding threshold, but Chapter 6 prohibits failing to provide adequate food, water, shelter, sanitation, and veterinary care. When complaints describe overcrowded conditions, ammonia odor, sick animals, or accumulated waste, Animal Care and Control and Code Compliance respond jointly. Officers may obtain warrants under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 821 to seize animals; owners face civil forfeiture hearings within ten days. Texas Penal Code 42.092 makes cruel treatment a Class A misdemeanor, escalating to a state jail felony for torture or repeat offenses. Mental-health referrals frequently accompany prosecution because hoarding is recognized as a behavioral disorder.
Violations & Fines
Cruelty convictions carry up to one year jail and fines up to four thousand dollars per animal; felony charges add prison time. Courts routinely order surrender of all animals, restitution for veterinary costs, and bans on future animal ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many animals trigger a hoarding case in Fort Worth?
How do I report a suspected hoarding situation?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fort Worth
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Fort Worth to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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Pet Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Tarrant County handle pet limits.