Does Lubbock, TX have its own wildlife rescue permits ordinance?

No. Lubbock, TX does not appear to have a local wildlife rescue permits ordinance, Texas state law applies instead. The rules summarized on this page come from Texas Parks and Wildlife Code.

Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in Lubbock

Lubbock, TX Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Rescue Permits (2026)

Light Restrictions

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

Key Facts

State permit: TPWD rehabilitator license
Federal permit: USFWS for birds
Authority: Tex. PWC Ch. 43
Home use: Allowed within permit limits

Summary

Rehabilitating injured native wildlife in Lubbock requires a Texas Parks and Wildlife rehabilitator permit and a federal migratory bird permit when birds are involved. Lubbock allows licensed rehabilitators to operate in residential zones with limits.

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.(b) A permit under this subchapter is not required for an activity that may be lawfully conducted under the authority of another license or permit issued under this code or in accordance with another provision of this code.(c) No other license is required for an activity conducted under the authority of a permit issued under this subchapter.(d) A permit under this subchapter is not required to hold, transport, propagate, or display a marine mammal held under the authority of the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act (16 U.S.C.

Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

Texas Parks and Wildlife Code Chapter 43 and TPWD regulations require any person caring for injured or orphaned native wildlife to hold a state rehabilitator permit, complete training, and meet caging and recordkeeping standards. Migratory birds additionally require federal authorization from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. In Lubbock, permitted rehabilitators may operate as a low-impact home occupation provided they generate no commercial signage, limit animal counts to permit conditions, and properly dispose of carcasses and waste. Possessing native wildlife without a permit, even temporarily, is illegal and may result in seizure.

Violations & Fines

State Class C misdemeanor for unpermitted possession, federal penalties for migratory birds, animal seizure, and code-enforcement action for noise, odor, or sanitation issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep a baby bird I found in my Lubbock yard?

No, possessing native wildlife without TPWD and federal permits is illegal; contact a licensed rehabilitator or TPWD for guidance on the safest next step.

How do I become a wildlife rehabilitator in Lubbock?

Apprentice with a TPWD-permitted rehabilitator, complete required training, pass an exam, document caging facilities, and apply for the state and any federal permits needed.

Sources & Official References

[1]Tex. Parks and Wildlife Code Ch. 43

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