Exotic Pets: Arlington vs Keller
How do exotic pets rules compare between Arlington, TX and Keller, TX?
Arlington and Keller have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, TX
Tarrant County
Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 822 Subchapter E regulates dangerous wild animals (big cats, bears, primates, venomous reptiles), requiring state registration, $100,000 insurance, and secure containment. Arlington Code of Ordinances further prohibits these dangerous wild animals in most residential zones regardless of state permit.
View full Arlington rules →Keller, TX
Tarrant County
Keller follows TX H&S Code 822 subchapter E and TX Parks and Wildlife Code 63. Big cats, bears, non-human primates, and many venomous reptiles are effectively barred as pets.
View full Keller rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Keller |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Banned (Effective) | - | Big cats, bears, primates |
| State Framework | - | TX H&S 822 subchapter E |
| Wildlife Permits | - | TPWD Code 63 |
| Venomous Snakes | - | Regulated under TPWD |
| Generally Legal | - | Ferrets, parrots, hedgehogs |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
Keller FAQ
Can I keep a monkey or tiger in Keller?
No. Non-human primates and big cats are dangerous wild animals under TX H&S 822 subchapter E, and Keller does not grant the registration needed to keep them.
Are ferrets legal in Keller?
Yes. Ferrets are not listed as dangerous wild animals. They are subject to standard rabies vaccination and animal care rules.
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