Willis's Animal Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles animal ordinances a little differently. In Willis, Texas, there are 4 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.

Chickens & Livestock

Livestock and poultry in Willis residential zones are regulated by Chapter 155 (Zoning Code). Residential zones typically restrict livestock. Contact Planning & Zoning at 936-856-4611 for zone-specific rules.

Key details: Zoning Code: Chapter 155. Livestock: Typically restricted to ag zones. Contact: 936-856-4611. Topic: Chickens Livestock.

Zoning violations for keeping prohibited animals in residential zones. §92.21 nuisance citations.

Dog Leash Laws

Willis §90.021 requires animals to be under restraint and control. Dogs found running at large may be impounded or result in citations. Montgomery County Animal Services (MCAS) also serves the Willis area.

Key details: Code Section: §90.021. Restraint Required: Yes, off owner's property. Citation: May be issued without owner contact. MCAS Contact: mcaspets.org.

§90.021 citations for animals at large. MCAS impoundment. State law tethering violations: Class C misdemeanor.

Breed Restrictions

Willis follows Texas state law prohibiting breed-specific legislation. No breed ban exists. Dangerous dog determinations are incident-based under TX Health and Safety Code Chapter 822.

Key details: Breed Ban: None (state law prohibits BSL). Governing Law: TX HSC Ch. 822, Subch. D. Dangerous Dog: Incident-based. Topic: Breed Restrictions.

No breed violation possible. Dangerous dog non-compliance: Class C misdemeanor under TX HSC Ch. 822.

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

Beekeeping

Beekeeping in Willis may be restricted by Chapter 155 zoning. Texas Agriculture Code §131 permits backyard beekeeping with TDAR registration. Verify local zoning rules before installing hives.

Key details: State Law: TX Ag Code §131 (TDAR registration). Local Zoning: May restrict in residential zones. Contact: 936-856-4611. Topic: Beekeeping.

Potential zoning violation in restricted zones. §92.21 nuisance citations for problem hives. State TDAR violations.

The Bottom Line

Willis'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 Willis is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Willis 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.