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Lubbock, TX Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

Code
LMC Ch. 4 plus Tex. HSC Ch. 821
Investigators
Lubbock Animal Services and LPD
Court remedy
Civil forfeiture and ownership ban
Criminal exposure
Tex. Penal Code 42.092

Summary

Lubbock prohibits keeping animals in numbers or conditions that endanger their welfare. Lubbock Animal Services and LPD investigate hoarding cases under LMC Chapter 4 and Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 821 cruelty provisions.

Sec. 42.092. CRUELTY TO NONLIVESTOCK ANIMALS. (a) In this section:(1) "Abandon" includes abandoning an animal in the person's custody without making reasonable arrangements for assumption of custody by another person.(2) "Animal" means a domesticated living creature, including any stray or feral cat or dog, and a wild living creature previously captured. The term does not include an uncaptured wild living creature or a livestock animal.(3) "Cruel manner" includes a manner that causes or permits unjustified or unwarranted pain or suffering.(4) "Custody" includes responsibility for the health, safety, and welfare of an animal subject to the person's care and control, regardless of ownership of the animal.(5) "Depredation" has the meaning assi

Source: Lubbock Animal ServicesView official code

Full Breakdown

LMC Chapter 4 forbids any person from keeping animals in unsanitary, overcrowded, or unhealthy conditions that fail to provide adequate food, water, shelter, or veterinary care. Lubbock Animal Services responds to complaints, conducts welfare inspections, and may impound neglected animals. Severe cases are referred to LPD for criminal prosecution under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 821 and Penal Code 42.092 cruelty statutes. A municipal court may order forfeiture of the animals, restrict future ownership, and require restitution for shelter and veterinary costs incurred during the investigation.

Violations & Fines

Confiscation of animals, civil court forfeiture under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 821, criminal cruelty charges, restitution for impound costs, and bans on future animal ownership.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I report suspected hoarding in Lubbock?
Call Lubbock Animal Services or use the city 311 portal at mylubbock.us; emergencies and clear cruelty go through LPD non-emergency dispatch.
Can the city seize my animals on a first complaint?
Only after inspection finds neglect or cruelty; seizure typically follows a Texas HSC Chapter 821 warrant and a municipal court hearing within ten days.

Sources & Official References

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All Lubbock rules

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