Animal Ordinances in Tyler, TX (2026)
6 verified animal ordinances for Tyler, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Chickens & Livestock
Tyler allows up to six fowl per household in non-agricultural zones regardless of lot size, with coops set back 15 feet from side and rear lines. Livestock is one animal per fenced acre, capped at three; hogs and swine are banned citywide.
Tyler Chickens & Livestock Rules
Some RestrictionsTyler, TX, Code of Ordinances ch. 14, Sec. 14-13(b)
In an area zoned AG, no more than six (6) fowl may be kept per acre. In all other zoning districts, no more than six (6) fowl may be kept per household regardless of lot size
Dog Leash Laws
Tyler prohibits any animal from running at large; loose dogs are a public nuisance subject to impoundment under Sec. 14-11. Households may keep up to four dogs, and off-leash is allowed only under proven voice command.
Tyler Dog Leash Laws
Some RestrictionsTyler, TX, Code of Ordinances ch. 14, Sec. 14-11
All dogs, livestock, fowl, or dangerous wild animals running astray within the City limits or within five thousand (5,000) feet thereof are hereby declared a public nuisance. It is unlawful for any person, without regard to mental state, to suffer or permit any animal to run astray within the City limits or within five thousand (5,000) feet thereof.
Breed Restrictions
Tyler bans no dog breed. Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 822 (Lillian's Law) makes dangerous-dog status behavior-based, and state law bars cities from breed-specific rules. Trained attack dogs face confinement rules under Sec. 14-22.
Tyler Dog Breed Restrictions
Few RestrictionsBeekeeping
Tyler sets no hive limit or beekeeping permit; bees are neither fowl nor livestock under city code. State law governs through the Texas Apiary Inspection Service, and Tyler is a Bee City USA affiliate that promotes pollinators.
Tyler Beekeeping Rules
Few RestrictionsExotic Pets
Tyler bans keeping dangerous wild animals within city limits or 5,000 feet of them, declaring it a public nuisance. The prohibited list covers big cats, bears, wolves, primates, venomous and constrictor snakes, alligators, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, and skunks.
Tyler Exotic & Wild Animal Regulations
Heavy RestrictionsTyler, TX, Code of Ordinances ch. 14, Sec. 14-14(b)
Except as otherwise provided herein, the ownership, possession, keeping, harboring, or exhibition of any dangerous wild animal or reptile within the City limits or within five thousand (5,000) feet thereof is hereby declared a public nuisance and unlawful.
Wildlife Feeding
Tyler has no ordinance specifically banning the feeding of wildlife. Attracting animals that create odors, health hazards, or nuisance conditions can be abated under city nuisance rules, and keeping wild animals such as coyotes or raccoons is separately prohibited.
Tyler Wildlife Feeding Restrictions
Few RestrictionsLooking for Smith County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Tyler city rules.
Animal Ordinances in Smith County →