Exotic Pets: Dallas vs DeSoto
How do exotic pets rules compare between Dallas, TX and DeSoto, TX?
Dallas and DeSoto have similar restriction levels.
Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Dallas City Code Chapter 7, Article VI, Sec. 7-6.1 prohibits the keeping of certain dangerous or exotic animals as pets. It is unlawful to sell, exchange, give away, or transfer a prohibited animal in the city for use as a pet. Defenses include being a licensed facility, veterinarian, humane society, or exhibitor at the State Fair with proper permits. Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822, Subchapter E further regulates dangerous wild animals at the state level.
View full Dallas rules →DeSoto, TX
Dallas County
DeSoto prohibits keeping dangerous wild animals as pets within city limits. Under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822 Subchapter E, dangerous wild animals (lions, tigers, bears, non-human primate
View full DeSoto rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | DeSoto |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Ch. 7, Art. VI, Sec. 7-6.1 | - |
| Prohibition | Unlawful to keep prohibited animals as pets | - |
| State Law | TX Health & Safety Code Ch. 822, Subch. E | - |
| Exceptions | Licensed facilities, vets, humane societies, State Fair exhibitors | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dallas FAQ
Can I keep an exotic animal as a pet in Dallas?
No. Sec. 7-6.1 prohibits keeping prohibited animals as pets in Dallas. Defenses exist only for licensed facilities, veterinarians, and certain exhibitors with proper permits.
What state law applies to exotic pets in Texas?
Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822, Subchapter E regulates dangerous wild animals including registration requirements, liability, and local control authority.
DeSoto FAQ
Can I own a big cat or primate in DeSoto?
No. Dangerous wild animals are prohibited as pets in DeSoto and most Texas cities under state dangerous wild animal laws.
Are ferrets legal in DeSoto?
Yes. Ferrets are legal in Texas and DeSoto, unlike some other states. They must still meet basic animal care standards.
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