Exotic Pets: Fort Worth vs Haltom City
How do exotic pets rules compare between Fort Worth, TX and Haltom City, TX?
Fort Worth and Haltom City have similar restriction levels.
Fort Worth, TX
Tarrant County
Fort Worth Sec. 6-62 prohibits dangerous animals and TX HSC §822.102 Dangerous Wild Animals (lions, tigers, bears, primates, etc.). Exemptions for zoos, circuses, educational institutions, licensed labs, and wildlife rehabilitators. Miniature swine addressed separately.
View full Fort Worth rules →Haltom City, TX
Tarrant County
Haltom City prohibits dangerous wild animals under Chapter 14. Tigers, lions, bears, venomous snakes, primates, and large constrictors are banned in residential areas. TX H and S 822.101 governs registration statewide.
View full Haltom City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fort Worth | Haltom City |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Sec. 6-62 | - |
| State Law | TX HSC §822.102 | TX H and S 822.101 framework |
| Prohibited | Lions, tigers, bears, etc. | - |
| Mini Swine | Separate provisions | - |
| Big Cats and Bears | - | Prohibited |
| Venomous Snakes | - | Prohibited |
| Primates | - | Prohibited |
| Common Small Exotics | - | Generally allowed |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fort Worth FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Fort Worth?
Fort Worth Sec. 6-62 prohibits dangerous animals and TX HSC §822.102 Dangerous Wild Animals (lions, tigers, bears, primates, etc.). Exemptions for zoos, circuses, educational institutions, licensed labs, and wildlife rehabilitators. Miniature swine addressed separately.
What exotic animals are prohibited in Fort Worth?
Code Section: Sec. 6-62. State Law: TX HSC §822.102. Prohibited: Lions, tigers, bears, etc.. Mini Swine: Separate provisions.
Haltom City FAQ
Can I own a tiger or monkey in Haltom City?
No. Haltom City prohibits dangerous wild animals including big cats, bears, non-human primates, and venomous snakes in residential areas. State law under TX Health and Safety Code 822.101 also imposes strict registration and liability requirements.
What exotic pets are legal in Haltom City?
Small exotics such as non-venomous snakes, lizards, turtles, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, and parrots are generally allowed in residential zones without special permit, subject to humane care standards and state wildlife regulations.
Do I need a permit for a raptor or native alligator?
Yes. Texas Parks and Wildlife requires TPWD permits for many native species including raptors, alligators, fur-bearers, and exotic ungulates. City rules apply in addition to any TPWD permit.
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