Pet Limits: Dallas vs Irving
How do pet limits rules compare between Dallas, TX and Irving, TX?
Irving has fewer restrictions than Dallas.
Dallas, TX
Dallas County
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 →Irving, TX
Dallas County
Dallas County imposes no pets-per-household cap. Each city sets its own limit. Dallas allows up to six dogs and cats combined per single-family residence; suburbs vary from three to eight, often with kennel-permit options for larger numbers.
View full Irving rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Irving |
|---|---|---|
| Dog limit | Six dogs over four months | - |
| Cat limit | Eight cats over four months | - |
| Permit required | Multiple animal permit | - |
| Issuer | Dallas Animal Services | - |
| Inspection | Required for permit | - |
| County cap | - | None |
| Dallas cap | - | Six dogs and cats |
| Plano cap | - | Four dogs |
| Garland cap | - | Three dogs, three cats |
| Cruelty backstop | - | TX Penal Code 42.092 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Irving FAQ
How many pets can I keep in Dallas County?
There is no county cap. Inside city limits, the local ordinance applies. Dallas allows six combined; Plano allows four dogs; Garland three each. Check your city before adding pets.
Do kennel permits raise the cap?
Yes in many cities. Dallas, Plano, and Garland all offer kennel or hobby-breeder permits with inspections, zoning checks, and annual fees. Permits typically allow several additional animals beyond the residential limit.
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