Bexar County, TX Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Rescue Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- State permit
- TPWD 31 TAC 69.45
- Federal permit
- USFWS migratory birds
- Rabies vector species
- Special permit required
- Annual report
- Mandatory to TPWD
- Facility inspections
- Routine and complaint
Summary
Wildlife rehabilitation in Bexar County requires a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department rehabilitator permit under 31 TAC 69.45 plus federal U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service migratory-bird permits where applicable, with no separate county permit but mandatory facility inspections and species-specific authorization.
SUBCHAPTER C. PERMITS FOR SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH, ZOOLOGICAL COLLECTION, REHABILITATION, AND EDUCATIONAL DISPLAY. Sec. 43.021. PROTECTED WILDLIFE. In this subchapter, 'protected wildlife' means all indigenous mammals, indigenous birds, indigenous reptiles, indigenous amphibians, and indigenous aquatic animal life ... and includes endangered species. Sec. 43.022. PERMIT REQUIREMENT. (a) No person may collect, hold, possess, display, transport, release, or propagate protected wildlife for the purposes of this subchapter without a permit issued under this subchapter.
Full Breakdown
Texas 31 TAC 69.45 requires anyone holding native wildlife for rehabilitation to obtain a TPWD rehabilitator permit, pass a written exam, complete annual reporting, and maintain inspectable facilities. Federal permits from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are required for migratory birds (Migratory Bird Treaty Act) and threatened or endangered species. Bexar County Animal Care Services refers injured wildlife to permitted rehabilitators including Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Inc. and the Texas Wildlife Rescue. Unpermitted possession of native wildlife is illegal under Texas Parks and Wildlife Code 43.022, even with rescue intent. Rabies vector species require additional special-purpose permits.
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted wildlife possession: Class C parks-and-wildlife misdemeanor up to $500; rabies vector violation up to $4,000; federal MBTA violation: up to $15,000 and 6 months jail; permit revocation for facility deficiencies under 31 TAC 69.45.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rescue an injured raccoon at home?
Where do I take an injured songbird?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bexar County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Bexar County to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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