Chickens & Livestock: San Antonio vs Universal City
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between San Antonio, TX and Universal City, TX?
San Antonio has fewer restrictions than Universal City.
San Antonio, TX
Bexar County
Unincorporated Bexar County allows backyard chickens and small livestock with no numeric limit; HOA covenants often restrict. San Antonio allows up to 8 hens, no roosters, with a 20-foot coop setback.
View full San Antonio rules →Universal City, TX
Bexar County
Universal City permits a limited number of backyard hens on larger residential lots but prohibits roosters and most livestock in standard residential zoning.
View full Universal City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Antonio | Universal City |
|---|---|---|
| County flock limit | None in unincorporated Bexar | - |
| San Antonio limit | 8 hens, no roosters | - |
| San Antonio coop setback | 20 feet from neighbor dwelling | - |
| Right to farm | TX Ag Code 251 one-year rule | - |
| Nuisance rule | TX H&S Code Ch. 343 | - |
| Hens Allowed | - | Limited number on qualifying lots |
| Roosters | - | Prohibited |
| Coop Setback | - | Typically 25 feet from neighbors |
| Livestock | - | Not in standard residential zones |
| Max Fine | - | Up to 500 dollars per day |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Antonio FAQ
Can I keep a rooster in unincorporated Bexar County?
Yes. No county rule prohibits roosters. Be aware that pre-dawn crowing may trigger a TX Penal Code 42.01 complaint from close neighbors.
How many goats can I keep in the county?
No county numeric limit. Stocking rate is practical, not legal; plan for about 1 goat per 0.5 to 1 acre on managed pasture. HOAs may prohibit goats entirely.
Does the Right to Farm Act protect my new chicken coop from neighbor lawsuits?
It protects the operation from nuisance claims once established for one year, if operating within standard practices and lawful when started. New neighbors moving in afterward have limited recourse.
Universal City FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Northview Estates?
Subdivision deed restrictions often prohibit fowl even when city rules allow them. Check your HOA covenants before buying chicks.
Can I have a goat for brush control?
Not in residential zoning. You would need a lot classified for agricultural use.
Compare other topics
See how San Antonio and Universal City compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool