Brownsville, TX Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)
Key Facts
- Wildlife feeding ordinance
- None
- Rat harborage
- Prohibited, Code § 54-98
- Keeping wild animals
- Prohibited, Code § 10-1221
- Three-day rule
- Feeding can make you the owner
- Maximum fine
- $2,000 per offense
Summary
Brownsville has no ordinance against feeding birds, feral cats, or wild animals. Complaints are handled through the animal nuisance rule in § 10-1062, the rat-harborage prohibition in § 54-98, and the ban on keeping wild animals in § 10-1221.
It shall be unlawful for any person to use or maintain any business or residential building or premises in such manner that a rat harborage is brought into existence or maintained.
Full Breakdown
Nothing in Chapter 10 or Chapter 54 prohibits putting out food for wildlife. Enforcement arrives sideways. Section 54-98 makes it unlawful to maintain a residential or business premises so that a rat harborage exists, and spilled feed on the ground qualifies once rodents move in. Section 10-1062 declares any animal kept so as to create a public health hazard, noxious odors, or annoyance to neighbors a nuisance. Section 10-1221 bars harboring raccoons, skunks, coyotes, and similar wild animals inside the city, and § 10-1001 makes anyone who lets an animal remain about the premises for three days its owner.
Violations & Fines
Ordinance enforcement issues citations for rat harborage and animal nuisance. Health and sanitation offenses carry fines up to $2,000 under § 1-13, with each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I feed the parrots and grackles in my yard?
What about feeding stray or feral cats?
Is feeding raccoons or coyotes allowed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Brownsville
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