Midland's Animal Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles animal ordinances a little differently. In Midland, Texas, there are 6 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Beekeeping

Midland may allow residential beekeeping with hive limits and setbacks. Africanized bee concerns in Texas. Regulations vary by city.

Key details: Hives: Check city limits. Registration: TAIS registration. Africanized: Concern in Texas. Ag Exempt: May qualify.

Unauthorized hives: removal order. Nuisance complaints: fines. Africanized bee swarms: emergency removal.

Wildlife Feeding

Midland restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuisance conditions.

Key details: Prohibited: Deer, coyotes, bears. Bird Feeders: May be restricted. Pet Food: Must not be left outside. Fines: $50 to $500.

Warnings for first offense. Fines typically $50 to $500. Repeat violations may result in misdemeanor charges in some jurisdictions.

Exotic Pets

Midland restricts ownership of exotic and wild animals. Many species require special permits or are prohibited entirely for public safety.

Key details: Large Cats: Generally prohibited. Primates: Generally prohibited. Permits: Required for some species. Insurance: May be required.

Confiscation of prohibited animals. Fines $500 to $5,000. Criminal charges possible for dangerous species. Owner liable for damages from escaped animals.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Midland actively enforces its exotic pets requirements.

Breed Restrictions

Texas does not ban specific dog breeds. Lillian’s Law (HSC Ch. 822) is behavior-based. Dangerous dog designations based on individual dog’s actions.

Key details: Breed Bans: None in Texas. State Law: Lillian’s Law (HSC Ch. 822). Dangerous Dogs: Behavior-based only. HOA: May have breed rules.

Dangerous dog violations: Class C misdemeanor to third-degree felony depending on severity. Containment failure: $500+.

The rules around breed restrictions in Midland lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

Dog Leash Laws

Midland requires dogs on leash in public. Off-leash in designated parks only. License and rabies vaccination required. TX HSC §822.013 covers dogs at large.

Key details: Leash: Required in public. Off-Leash: Designated parks only. License: Required + rabies. State Law: TX HSC §822.013.

Off-leash: $50 to $200. At-large: impound fees + citation. Unlicensed: $50 to $250. Waste: $50 to $500.

Chickens & Livestock

Midland may allow backyard chickens with limits. Roosters typically banned in residential areas. Livestock requires agricultural zoning or minimum lot size.

Key details: Hens: Typically 4 to 6 allowed. Roosters: Usually prohibited. Livestock: Agricultural zones. Closed Range: Livestock must be fenced.

Unauthorized livestock: removal order. Nuisance: $100 to $500. Roosters in prohibited areas: immediate removal.

The Bottom Line

Midland's animal ordinances rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Midland is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Midland's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.