Exotic Pets: Dallas vs Irving
How do exotic pets rules compare between Dallas, TX and Irving, TX?
Dallas and Irving 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 →Irving, TX
Dallas County
Irving Ch. 6 regulates the keeping of wild and exotic animals. Texas Parks and Wildlife regulates possession of dangerous wild animals under Health & Safety Code Ch. 822, Subchapter E.
View full Irving rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Irving |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | TX Health & Safety Code Ch. 822, Subchapter E |
| Exceptions | Licensed facilities, vets, humane societies, State Fair exhibitors | - |
| Dangerous Wild Animals | - | Registration required |
| Escaped Animals | - | May be seized |
| Federal Permits | - | May be required for some species |
| Contact | - | Animal Services (972) 721-2256 |
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.
Irving FAQ
Can I keep an exotic pet in Irving?
It depends on the species. Dangerous wild animals (lions, tigers, bears, primates, large constrictors) require registration. Contact Animal Services at (972) 721-2256.
What is considered a dangerous wild animal in Texas?
Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822 lists specific species including big cats, bears, primates, and large constricting snakes.
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