Livestock: San Antonio vs Universal City
How do 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 sets no numeric livestock limits; TX Ag Code Ch. 142 estrays and Ch. 143 stock laws apply. San Antonio restricts livestock to AG-zoned or legal nonconforming AG parcels.
View full San Antonio rules →Universal City, TX
Bexar County
Horses, cattle, goats, sheep, and swine are not permitted in standard residential districts in Universal City. Livestock is limited to agricultural tracts or lots with specific zoning approval.
View full Universal City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Antonio | Universal City |
|---|---|---|
| County livestock limits | None by number | - |
| Estray law | TX Ag Code Ch. 142 | - |
| Right to farm | TX Ag Code Ch. 251 | - |
| San Antonio minimum | AG zoning or nonconforming | - |
| Feral hog release | State jail felony | - |
| Residential Zones | - | Livestock prohibited |
| Acreage Rule | - | Typically one acre per large animal |
| Setbacks | - | 50 feet from dwellings |
| County Stock Law | - | Per Bexar County rules |
| Max Fine | - | 500 dollars per animal per day |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Antonio FAQ
Can I keep horses on 1 acre in unincorporated Bexar County?
Yes, no legal minimum acreage. Practically, 1 to 2 acres per horse is recommended for pasture, plus a shelter and water source per basic animal-welfare standards.
Do I need a brand for my cattle?
Branding is not required, but recording a brand with the Bexar County Clerk under Ag Code 144 provides proof of ownership in estray cases and is recommended.
What happens if my cow gets loose?
Under TX Ag Code 142, any person finding stray livestock may impound and report to the Sheriff. The Sheriff advertises and owner reclaims after paying fees. After statutory period, estray may be sold.
Universal City FAQ
Can I board my horse in my Universal City backyard?
No. Even large residential lots are not zoned for equine boarding.
Where can I keep livestock near Universal City?
Unincorporated Bexar County tracts zoned agricultural, or nearby rural Comal/Guadalupe County properties.
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