Exotic Pets: Austin vs Denver
How do exotic pets rules compare between Austin, TX and Denver, CO?
Austin and Denver have similar restriction levels.
Austin, TX
Travis County
Travis County regulates dangerous wild animals under TX H&SC 822.101-.116. Lions, tigers, bears, primates, and venomous reptiles require registration with the county animal registration authority and $100,000 liability insurance.
View full Austin rules →Denver, CO
Denver County
Denver DRMC Chapter 8 prohibits numerous exotic animals including big cats, wolves, foxes, raccoons, primates, venomous reptiles, and large constrictors. Violations carry significant fines.
View full Denver rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Austin | Denver |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | TX H&SC 822.101-.116 | - |
| Registration | Required annually | - |
| Insurance | $100,000 minimum | - |
| Covered | Big cats, bears, primates, venomous | - |
| Prohibited | - | Big cats, wolves, foxes, raccoons, primates |
| Also Prohibited | - | Venomous snakes, large constrictors |
| Code Section | - | DRMC Chapter 8 |
| Enforcement | - | Denver Animal Protection |
| Max Fine | - | Up to $999 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Austin FAQ
Who enforces this in Travis County?
Travis County code enforcement at (512) 854-4260 handles most complaints.
Who enforces this in Travis County?
Travis County code enforcement at (512) 854-4260 handles most complaints.
Denver FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Denver?
Denver DRMC Chapter 8 prohibits numerous exotic animals including big cats, wolves, foxes, raccoons, primates, venomous reptiles, and large constrictors. Violations carry significant fines.
What exotic animals are prohibited in Denver?
Prohibited: Big cats, wolves, foxes, raccoons, primates. Also Prohibited: Venomous snakes, large constrictors. Code Section: DRMC Chapter 8. Enforcement: Denver Animal Protection.
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