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πŸ” Animal Ordinances/Pet Limits

Pet Limits: Austin vs Dallas

How do pet limits rules compare between Austin, TX and Dallas, TX?

Austin and Dallas have similar restriction levels.

Austin, TX

Travis County

Some Restrictions

Austin City Code Section 3-2-7 limits households to three dogs and three cats over four months old without an animal-establishment permit. Larger numbers require a kennel, foster, or rescue authorization with inspection, zoning compliance, and welfare standards.

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Dallas, TX

Dallas County

Some Restrictions

Dallas City Code Chapter 7 caps the number of dogs and cats per household at six dogs and eight cats over four months old without a multiple animal permit. Larger households need an inspection and a multiple animal permit from Dallas Animal Services.

View full Dallas rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactAustinDallas
Code sectionAustin Code 3-2-7-
Dog limitThree over four monthsSix dogs over four months
Cat limitThree over four monthsEight cats over four months
Foster carve-outThrough partner rescues-
SeverityModerate β€” civil fines-
Permit required-Multiple animal permit
Issuer-Dallas Animal Services
Inspection-Required for permit

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Austin FAQ

Can I keep four dogs in Austin?

Only with an animal-establishment permit treating the property as a kennel or rescue, which requires inspection and welfare compliance. Otherwise the cap is three dogs over four months per household under Section 3-2-7.

Do litters count toward the limit?

No. Puppies and kittens under four months old born in the home do not count toward the three-and-three household cap. Once they pass four months, they count and must be rehomed or covered by a permit.

Dallas FAQ

Do puppies and kittens count toward the Dallas pet limit?

No, animals under four months are excluded from the cap. Once a puppy or kitten reaches four months old, it counts against the six-dog or eight-cat household limit under Dallas Code Chapter 7.

How do I get a multiple animal permit in Dallas?

Apply through Dallas Animal Services. Requirements include a property inspection, neighbor notification, current rabies vaccinations, city registration, and spay or neuter records for each animal in the household above the six dog or eight cat limit.

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