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

If you live in Mission or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Mission has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.

Dog Leash Laws

Mission Code of Ordinances Chapter 14 (Animals) governs animal control inside the city, requiring dogs to be restrained when off the owner's property. The Mission Animal Shelter (227 Abelino Farias St) impounds stray and at-large dogs. Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 822 layers state-level dangerous-dog restraint, insurance, and registration duties on top of the city ordinance.

Key details: City Authority: Mission Code Ch. 14 (Animals). Animal Shelter: 227 Abelino Farias St, Mission TX. Phone: 956-580-8741. State Dangerous Dog Law: TX HSC §§822.041-822.047. Liability Insurance: $100,000 for dangerous dogs (§822.042).

City leash and at-large violations under Mission Chapter 14 are typically Class C misdemeanors with fines up to $500 per Texas Local Government Code §54.001, plus impound, boarding, and vaccination fees to reclaim a pet. State dangerous-dog violations under HSC §822.044/§822.045: Class C misdemeanor (up to $500) on first offense, Class B (up to $2,000 / 180 days jail) on subsequent offenses. Attacks causing serious injury or death by a known dangerous dog: third-degree felony (or second-degree if death results) under HSC §822.005. Tethering violations under HSC Ch. 821-F: Class C misdemeanor escalating with repeat offenses.

Exotic Pets

Exotic wildlife requires TPWD permits in Texas. Mission may have additional local restrictions on dangerous animals.

Key details: State Law: TX Parks & Wildlife Code. TPWD Permits: Required for raptors, fur-bearers, etc.. Local Code: Mission Animal Ordinance. Contact: Mission City Hall.

Possession of prohibited exotic animals: $500–$5,000 fine, animal seizure, and potential misdemeanor charges. Escaped exotic animals creating public danger may result in felony charges and full liability for damages.

Beekeeping

Beekeeping is regulated locally in Mission. TAIS governs commercial operations statewide. No state registration required for hobby beekeepers.

Key details: State Law: TX Agriculture Code — TAIS. Local Code: Mission Animal / Zoning Ordinance. Commercial: TAIS registration and inspection required. Contact: Mission City Hall.

Beekeeping complaints are handled through nuisance provisions. Non-compliant apiaries receive correction notices. Fines of $50–$100 apply if setback or flyway barrier requirements are not met within 30 days.

The Bottom Line

Mission'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 Mission is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Mission 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.