Plano, TX Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

City Code of Ordinances Sec. 4-81(a) sets the baseline: an individual property with one legal dwelling unit (not counting backyard cottages or accessory dwelling units) may harbor no more than 10 adult animals, of which no more than 4 may be intact dogs and cats. A dwelling unit on a property that doesn't meet that description is capped lower, at 5 adult animals with only 1 allowed to be an intact dog or cat. No property may keep more than one litter or clutch of offspring at a time.

Anyone wanting to exceed these numbers must apply to the Animal Services Department for a Multiple Pet Permit and pay an application fee. Under subsection (c), a permit issues only after an in-home inspection confirms the requested number of animals will not create noise or odor nuisances, can be kept in a healthy and sanitary environment, and complies with the intact-animal cap; owners with a current permit, no new animals since the last inspection, and no enforcement actions in the prior 12 months can renew by mail without a new inspection, though the department retains discretion to inspect anyway.

Permits run for one year and are non-transferable to a new applicant or location. Refusing to allow inspection, refusing to show the permit on request, or exceeding either the base cap or a permit's authorized number are each separate criminal offenses under subsections (e) through (h). Appeals of a permit denial or revocation go to the Animal Services Director in writing within 15 days under Sec. 4-82.