How Round Rock Handles Animal Ordinances: A Practical Guide

Round Rock maintains 38 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with animal ordinances. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Round Rock falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Breed Restrictions

Round Rock has no breed-specific legislation (BSL). All dog breeds are treated equally under Chapter 4. Dogs are regulated based on behavior, not breed.

Key details: Breed-Specific Ban: None. Regulation Approach: Behavior-based. Dangerous Dog Law: TX H&S Code Ch. 822. Insurance Required: $100,000 for declared dangerous dogs.

Dangerous dog violations under TX H&S Code Ch. 822: Class A misdemeanor. Failure to comply with dangerous dog requirements: up to $10,000 fine.

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

Exotic Pets

Round Rock follows Texas state law on dangerous wild animals. Big cats, bears, coyotes, and certain reptiles are prohibited as pets. The zoning code also restricts livestock in residential areas.

Key details: Big Cats / Bears / Apes: Prohibited under TX H&S Ch. 822. Livestock in Residential: Restricted by zoning. State Permit: Required for certain wildlife. Enforcement: Round Rock Animal Services + TPWD.

Unlawful possession of dangerous wild animal: Class C misdemeanor under state law, fines up to $10,000. Animal may be seized and transferred.

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

Dog Leash Laws

Round Rock requires all dogs to be restrained or on a leash when off the owner's property. Chapter 4 of the Code of Ordinances governs animal control. Dogs at large are subject to impoundment.

Key details: Leash Required: Yes — off owner's property. Code Section: Ch. 4 (Animals). Max Leash Length: 6 feet in public areas. Off-Leash Parks: Designated areas available. Fine: Up to $500.

Dog at large: Class C misdemeanor, fines up to $500. Impoundment fees and reclaim costs apply separately.

Beekeeping

Round Rock permits urban beekeeping subject to setback and hive limits under the zoning code. Hives must be registered with the Texas Apiary Inspection Service.

Key details: Beekeeping Allowed: Yes — with restrictions. Setback: 10–25 feet from property lines. State Registration: Texas Apiary Inspection Service. Flyway Barrier: Required if facing neighbor.

Non-compliant beekeeping: Code Enforcement citation, fines up to $2,000. Hives may be ordered removed.

The Bottom Line

Round Rock'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 Round Rock is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Round Rock 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.