Willis's Animal Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles animal ordinances a little differently. In Willis, Texas, there are 2 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.

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.

The rules around dog leash laws in Willis lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

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.

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

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Willis gives residents more room on animal ordinances. 2 of the 2 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

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.