Exotic Pets: Converse vs San Antonio
How do exotic pets rules compare between Converse, TX and San Antonio, TX?
Converse and San Antonio have similar restriction levels.
Converse, TX
Bexar County
Converse prohibits dangerous wild animals in residential areas under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822 Subchapter E. Large carnivores, primates, and venomous snakes require state and sometimes federal permits.
View full Converse rules →San Antonio, TX
Bexar County
San Antonio prohibits keeping wild and exotic animals within city limits under Chapter 5 of the Code of Ordinances. Prohibited species include non-human primates, wolf hybrids, coyotes, foxes, exotic cats, bears, skunks, raccoons, miniature Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs, and venomous species. The city defines nondomestic animals broadly, excluding only domestic cats, dogs, ferrets, rabbits, and similar household pets.
View full San Antonio rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Converse | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Dangerous wild animals | Prohibited in residential zones | - |
| State framework | Texas H&S 822 Subchapter E | - |
| Insurance if allowed | 100,000 dollars minimum | - |
| Venomous reptiles | TPWD permit, often prohibited | - |
| Native wildlife | Not permitted as pets | - |
| Code Section | - | Chapter 5 (Animals) |
| Prohibited | - | Primates, wolf hybrids, exotic cats, bears, skunks, raccoons |
| Also Banned | - | Coyotes, foxes, pot-bellied pigs, venomous species |
| Allowed Pets | - | Dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, similar household pets |
| Enforcement | - | Animal Care Services (ACS) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Converse FAQ
Can I own a ferret or hedgehog?
Yes. Ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, and most small exotic mammals are permitted pets in Converse with standard animal welfare requirements.
What about a boa constrictor?
Smaller non-venomous constrictors are generally legal pets. Large constrictors (Burmese, reticulated, anaconda) are restricted under Texas exotic species rules.
San Antonio FAQ
Can I keep a pet monkey in San Antonio?
No. Chapter 5 of the Code of Ordinances prohibits keeping non-human primates and other wild animals within city limits. This includes monkeys, apes, and all other primate species.
Are pot-bellied pigs allowed in San Antonio?
No. Miniature Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs are specifically listed among prohibited species under Chapter 5. The city only allows domestic cats, dogs, ferrets, rabbits, and similar traditional household pets.
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