Animal Ordinances in McKinney, TX: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in McKinney or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. McKinney has 7 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.

Wildlife Feeding

Feeding deer, coyotes, feral hogs, and other wildlife is prohibited in McKinney under Chapter 14 nuisance provisions. Bird feeding allowed but must not create a rodent attractant or bird accumulation nuisance.

Key details: Deer Feeding: Prohibited. Coyotes: Prohibited. Birds: Allowed if no nuisance. Fine: Up to $500.

Class C misdemeanor; fines up to $500 per incident. Repeated nuisance feeding that draws dangerous wildlife may be enhanced under health/safety provisions to $2,000.

Pet Limits

McKinney residential properties may keep up to 4 dogs and 4 cats combined over 4 months of age per City Code Chapter 14. Kennel license required for 5 or more of either species.

Key details: Dogs: 4 max. Cats: 4 max. Age Threshold: 4 months. Kennel License: 5+ animals.

Class C misdemeanor. Fine up to $500 per animal over the limit. Unlicensed kennel operation: up to $2,000 per day under health/safety provisions.

Chickens & Livestock

Backyard chickens allowed in McKinney with a limit of 6 hens, no roosters, on lots of at least 1/2 acre. Coops must be 25 feet from any residence and 10 feet from property lines under Zoning Ordinance fowl provisions.

Key details: Hens: 6 max. Roosters: Prohibited. Lot Size: 1/2 acre min. Coop Setback: 25 ft from home, 10 ft lot line. HOA: May override.

Code violation 100 to 500 per day. Repeat or unsanitary conditions can trigger removal order.

Dog Leash Laws

Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet whenever off the owner property under McKinney Code Chapter 14. Off-leash allowed only in designated dog parks (Bonnie Wenk Dog Park). TX Health & Safety Code 822.042 applies for dangerous dogs.

Key details: Leash Length: 6 ft max. Voice Control: Not accepted. Off-Leash: Designated parks only. Impound Fee: 50 plus boarding. Code: Chapter 14.

First offense citation 75, second offense 150, third and repeat 500. Dangerous dog designation under Lillian Law triggers insurance, muzzle, and enclosure requirements.

This is one of the stricter rules in McKinney's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Beekeeping

Beekeeping is permitted in McKinney on lots over 1/4 acre with hives set back at least 25 feet from property lines per Zoning Ordinance. Texas Apiary Inspection Service registration required for 6 or more colonies.

Key details: Lot Minimum: 1/4 acre. Setback: 25 ft. Colonies: 2 under 1 acre. Flyway: 6 ft barrier. State Reg: TAIS if 6+ hives.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

Breed Restrictions

McKinney does not enforce breed-specific legislation, consistent with Texas Health & Safety Code 822.047 which prohibits municipalities from banning breeds. Dangerous dog determinations are behavior-based under Lillian Law.

Key details: BSL: Not permitted. State Law: TX HSC 822.047. Standard: Behavior-based. Insurance: $100,000 for dangerous dogs.

Failure to comply with dangerous-dog rules: Class C misdemeanor up to $500; Class B if the dog causes injury; Class A or felony if serious injury or death occurs. Dog may be seized and ordered euthanized.

McKinney is more permissive than most cities when it comes to breed restrictions. That said, there are still limits.

Exotic Pets

McKinney prohibits dangerous wild animals under City Code Chapter 14, aligned with Texas Health & Safety Code 822.101-116. Lions, tigers, bears, non-human primates, and venomous reptiles require state registration and are generally banned within city limits.

Key details: Big Cats: Banned. Primates: Banned. Venomous Reptiles: Banned. State Law: TX HSC 822 Subch. E. Registration: County required statewide.

Class C misdemeanor up to $500 per day; Class B misdemeanor if injury occurs. Animals may be seized by Animal Services and transferred to a licensed sanctuary; owner responsible for all costs.

This is one of the stricter rules in McKinney's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

McKinney is tougher than many cities when it comes to animal ordinances. Out of the 7 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in McKinney, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that McKinney can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.