reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter D. Dangerous Dogs › Section 822.045. Violations

Sec. 822.045.  VIOLATIONS.  (a)  A person who owns or keeps custody or control of a dangerous dog commits an offense if the person fails to comply with Section 822.042 or Section 822.0422(b) or an applicable municipal or county regulation relating to dangerous dogs.
(b)  Except as provided by Subsection (c), an offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
(c)  An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor if it is shown on the trial of the offense that the defendant has previously been convicted under this section.
Added by Acts 1991, 72nd Leg., ch. 916, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1991.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 99, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter D. Dangerous Dogs › Section 822.046. Defense

Sec. 822.046.  DEFENSE.  (a)  It is a defense to prosecution under Section 822.044 or Section 822.045 that the person is a veterinarian, a peace officer, a person employed by a recognized animal shelter, or a person employed by the state or a political subdivision of the state to deal with stray animals and has temporary ownership, custody, or control of the dog in connection with that position.
(b)  It is a defense to prosecution under Section 822.044 or Section 822.045 that the person is an employee of the institutional division of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice or a law enforcement agency and trains or uses dogs for law enforcement or corrections purposes.
(c)  It is a defense to prosecution under Section 822.044 or Section 822.045 that the person is a dog trainer or an employee of a guard dog company under Chapter 1702, Occupations Code.
Added by Acts 1991, 72nd Leg., ch. 916, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1991.  Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1420, Sec. 14.809, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter D. Dangerous Dogs › Section 822.047. Local Regulation of Dangerous Dogs

Sec. 822.047.  LOCAL REGULATION OF DANGEROUS DOGS.  A county or municipality may place additional requirements or restrictions on dangerous dogs if the requirements or restrictions:
(1)  are not specific to one breed or several breeds of dogs;  and
(2)  are more stringent than restrictions provided by this subchapter.
Added by Acts 1991, 72nd Leg., ch. 916, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1991.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.101. Definitions

Sec. 822.101.  DEFINITIONS.  In this subchapter:
(1)  "Animal registration agency" means the municipal or county animal control office with authority over the area where a dangerous wild animal is kept or a county sheriff in an area that does not have an animal control office.
(2)  Repealed by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1, Sec. 3.1639(119), eff. April 2, 2015.
(3)  "Commercial activity" means:
(A)  an activity involving a dangerous wild animal conducted for profit that is not inherent to the animal's nature;
(B)  an activity for which a fee is charged and that is entertainment using or an exhibition of the animal;  or
(C)  the selling, trading, bartering, or auctioning of a dangerous wild animal or a dangerous wild animal's body parts.
(4)  "Dangerous wild animal" means:
(A)  a lion;
(B)  a tiger;
(C)  an ocelot;
(D)  a cougar;
(E)  a leopard;
(F)  a cheetah;
(G)  a jaguar;
(H)  a bobcat;
(I)  a lynx;
(J)  a serval;
(K)  a caracal;
(L)  a hyena;
(M)  a bear;
(N)  a coyote;
(O)  a jackal;
(P)  a baboon;
(Q)  a chimpanzee;
(R)  an orangutan;
(S)  a gorilla;  or
(T)  any hybrid of an animal listed in this subdivision.
(4-a)  "Executive commissioner" means the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission.
(5)  "Owner" means any person who owns, harbors, or has custody or control of a dangerous wild animal.
(6)  "Person" means an individual, partnership, corporation, trust, estate, joint stock company, foundation, or association of individuals.
(7)  "Primary enclosure" means any structure used to immediately restrict an animal to a limited amount of space, including a cage, pen, run, room, compartment, or hutch.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1 (S.B. 219), Sec. 3.1599, eff. April 2, 2015.
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1 (S.B. 219), Sec. 3.1639(119), eff. April 2, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.103. Certificate of Registration; Fees

Sec. 822.103.  CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION;  FEES.  (a)  A person may not own, harbor, or have custody or control of a dangerous wild animal for any purpose unless the person holds a certificate of registration for that animal issued by an animal registration agency.
(b)  A certificate of registration issued under this subchapter is not transferrable and is valid for one year after its date of issuance or renewal unless revoked.
(c)  The animal registration agency may establish and charge reasonable fees for application, issuance, and renewal of a certificate of registration in order to recover the costs associated with the administration and enforcement of this subchapter.  The fee charged to an applicant may not exceed $50 for each animal registered and may not exceed $500 for each person registering animals, regardless of the number of animals owned by the person.  The fees collected under this section may be used only to administer and enforce this subchapter.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.104. Certificate of Registration Application

Sec. 822.104.  CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION APPLICATION.  (a)  An applicant for an original or renewal certificate of registration for a dangerous wild animal must file an application with an animal registration agency on a form provided by the animal registration agency.
(b)  The application must include:
(1)  the name, address, and telephone number of the applicant;
(2)  a complete identification of each animal, including species, sex, age, if known, and any distinguishing marks or coloration that would aid in the identification of the animal;
(3)  the exact location where each animal is to be kept;
(4)  a sworn statement that:
(A)  all information in the application is complete and accurate;  and
(B)  the applicant has read this subchapter and that all facilities used by the applicant to confine or enclose the animal comply with the requirements of this subchapter;  and
(5)  any other information the animal registration agency may require.
(c)  An applicant shall include with each application:
(1)  the nonrefundable fee;
(2)  proof, in a form acceptable by the animal registration agency, that the applicant has liability insurance, as required by Section 822.107;
(3)  a color photograph of each animal being registered taken not earlier than the 30th day before the date the application is filed;
(4)  a photograph and a statement of the dimensions of the primary enclosure in which each animal is to be kept and a scale diagram of the premises where each animal will be kept, including the location of any perimeter fencing and any residence on the premises;  and
(5)  if an applicant holds a Class "A" or Class "B" dealer's license or Class "C" exhibitor's license issued by the secretary of agriculture of the United States under the Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. Section 2131 et seq.) and its subsequent amendments, a clear and legible photocopy of the license.
(d)  In addition to the items required under Subsection (c), an application for renewal must include a statement signed by a veterinarian licensed to practice in this state stating that the veterinarian:
(1)  inspected each animal being registered not earlier than the 30th day before the date of the filing of the renewal application;  and
(2)  finds that the care and treatment of each animal by the owner meets or exceeds the standards prescribed under this subchapter.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.105. Denial or Revocation of Certificate of Registration; Appeal

Sec. 822.105.  DENIAL OR REVOCATION OF CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION;  APPEAL.  (a)  If the animal registration agency finds that an application for an original or renewal certificate of registration under this subchapter does not meet the requirements of Section 822.104 or, after inspection, that an applicant has not complied with this subchapter, the animal registration agency shall deny the applicant a certificate of registration and give the applicant written notice of the denial and the reasons for the denial.
(b)  If the animal registration agency finds, after inspection, that a registered owner provided false information in or in connection with the application or has not complied with this subchapter, the animal registration agency shall revoke the certificate of registration and give the owner written notice of the revocation and the reasons for the revocation.
(c)  A person may appeal the denial of an original or renewal certificate of registration or the revocation of a certificate of registration to the justice court for the precinct in which the animal is located or the municipal court in the municipality in which the animal is located not later than the 15th day after the date the certificate of registration is denied or revoked.  Either party may appeal the decision of the justice or municipal court to a county court or county court at law in the county in which the justice or municipal court is located.  The decision of the county court or county court at law may not be appealed.
(d)  The filing of an appeal of the denial or revocation of a certificate of registration under Subsection (c) stays the denial or revocation until the court rules on the appeal.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.106. Display of Certificate of Registration

Sec. 822.106.  DISPLAY OF CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION.  (a)  A holder of a certificate of registration shall prominently display the certificate at the premises where each animal that is the subject of the certificate of registration is kept.
(b)  Not later than the 10th day after the date a person receives a certificate of registration, the person shall file a clear and legible copy of the certificate of registration with the Department of State Health Services.  The executive commissioner shall establish a procedure for filing a certificate of registration and by rule shall establish a reasonable fee to be collected by the department in an amount sufficient to recover the cost associated with filing a certificate of registration under this subsection.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1 (S.B. 219), Sec. 3.1601, eff. April 2, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.107. Liability Insurance

Sec. 822.107.  LIABILITY INSURANCE.  An owner of a dangerous wild animal shall maintain liability insurance coverage in an amount of not less than $100,000 for each occurrence for liability for damages for destruction of or damage to property and death or bodily injury to a person caused by the dangerous wild animal.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.108. Inspection

Sec. 822.108.  INSPECTION.  An owner of a dangerous wild animal, at all reasonable times, shall allow the animal registration agency, its staff, its agents, or a designated licensed veterinarian to enter the premises where the animal is kept and to inspect the animal, the primary enclosure for the animal, and the owner's records relating to the animal to ensure compliance with this subchapter.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.109. Relocation or Disposition of Animal

Sec. 822.109.  RELOCATION OR DISPOSITION OF ANIMAL.  (a)  An owner of a dangerous wild animal may not permanently relocate the animal unless the owner first notifies the animal registration agency in writing of the exact location to which the animal will be relocated and provides the animal registration agency, with respect to the new location, the information required by Section 822.104.
(b)  Within 10 days after the death, sale, or other disposition of the animal, the owner of the animal shall notify the animal registration agency in writing of the death, sale, or other disposition.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.110. Attack by Animal; Escape of Animal; Liability

Sec. 822.110.  ATTACK BY ANIMAL;  ESCAPE OF ANIMAL;  LIABILITY.  (a)  An owner of a dangerous wild animal shall notify the animal registration agency of any attack of a human by the animal within 48 hours of the attack.
(b)  An owner of a dangerous wild animal shall immediately notify the animal registration agency and the local law enforcement agency of any escape of the animal.
(c)  An owner of a dangerous wild animal that escapes is liable for all costs incurred in apprehending and confining the animal.
(d)  An animal registration agency, a law enforcement agency, or an employee of an animal registration agency or law enforcement agency is not liable to an owner of a dangerous wild animal for damages arising in connection with the escape of a dangerous wild animal, including liability for damage, injury, or death caused by the animal during or after the animal's escape, or for injury to or death of the animal as a result of apprehension or confinement of the animal after escape.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.111. Powers and Duties of Executive Commissioner; Caging Requirements and Standards

Sec. 822.111.  POWERS AND DUTIES OF EXECUTIVE COMMISSIONER; CAGING REQUIREMENTS AND STANDARDS.  (a)  The executive commissioner by rule shall establish caging requirements and standards for the keeping and confinement of a dangerous wild animal to ensure that the animal is kept in a manner and confined in a primary enclosure that:
(1)  protects and enhances the public's health and safety;
(2)  prevents escape by the animal; and
(3)  provides a safe, healthy, and humane environment for the animal.
(b)  An owner of a dangerous wild animal shall keep and confine the animal in accordance with the caging requirements and standards established by the executive commissioner.
(c)  An animal registration agency may approve a deviation from the caging requirements and standards established by the executive commissioner, only if:
(1)  the animal registration agency has good cause for the deviation; and
(2)  the deviation:
(A)  does not compromise the public's health and safety;
(B)  does not reduce the total area of the primary enclosure below that established by the executive commissioner; and
(C)  does not otherwise adversely affect the overall welfare of the animal involved.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1 (S.B. 219), Sec. 3.1602, eff. April 2, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.112. Care, Treatment, and Transportation of Animal

Sec. 822.112.  CARE, TREATMENT, AND TRANSPORTATION OF ANIMAL.  (a)  For each dangerous wild animal, the owner shall comply with all applicable standards of the Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. Section 2131 et seq.) and its subsequent amendments and the regulations adopted under that Act relating to:
(1)  facilities and operations;
(2)  animal health and husbandry;  and
(3)  veterinary care.
(b)  An owner of a dangerous wild animal shall maintain a separate written log for each dangerous wild animal documenting the animal's veterinary care and shall make the log available to the animal registration agency or its agent on request.  The log must:
(1)  identify the animal treated;
(2)  provide the date of treatment;
(3)  describe the type or nature of treatment;  and
(4)  provide the name of the attending veterinarian, if applicable.
(c)  When transporting a dangerous wild animal, the owner of the animal, or a designated carrier or intermediate handler of the animal, shall comply with all transportation standards that apply to that animal under the Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. Section 2131 et seq.) and its subsequent amendments or the regulations adopted under that Act.
(d)  A person is exempt from the requirements of this section if the person is caring for, treating, or transporting an animal for which the person holds a Class "A" or Class "B" dealer's license or a Class "C" exhibitor's license issued by the secretary of agriculture of the United States under the Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. Section 2131 et seq.) and its subsequent amendments.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.113. Offense and Penalty

Sec. 822.113.  OFFENSE AND PENALTY.  (a)  A person commits an offense if the person violates Section 822.103(a), Section 822.106, or Section 822.110(a) or (b).  Each animal with respect to which there is a violation and each day that a violation continues is a separate offense.
(b)  A person commits an offense if the person knowingly sells or otherwise transfers ownership of a dangerous wild animal to a person who does not have a certificate of registration for that animal as required by this subchapter.
(c)  An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.114. Civil Penalty

Sec. 822.114.  CIVIL PENALTY.  (a)  A person who violates Section 822.103(a) is liable for a civil penalty of not less than $200 and not more than $2,000 for each animal with respect to which there is a violation and for each day the violation continues.
(b)  The county or municipality in which the violation occurs may sue to collect a civil penalty.  A civil penalty collected under this subsection may be retained by the county or municipality.
(c)  The county or municipality in which the violation occurs may also recover the reasonable costs of investigation, reasonable attorney's fees, and reasonable expert witness fees incurred by the animal registration agency in the civil action.  Costs or fees recovered under this subsection shall be credited to the operating account from which payment for the animal registration agency's expenditures was made.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.115. Injunction

Sec. 822.115.  INJUNCTION.  Any person who is directly harmed or threatened with harm by a violation of this subchapter or a failure to enforce this subchapter may sue an owner of a dangerous wild animal to enjoin a violation of this subchapter or to enforce this subchapter.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 822 - Regulation of Animals › Subchapter E. Dangerous Wild Animals › Section 822.116. Effect of Subchapter on Other Law

Sec. 822.116.  EFFECT OF SUBCHAPTER ON OTHER LAW.  (a)  This subchapter does not affect the applicability of any other law, rule, order, ordinance, or other legal requirement of this state or a political subdivision of this state.
(b)  This subchapter does not prevent a municipality or county from prohibiting or regulating by ordinance or order the ownership, possession, confinement, or care of a dangerous wild animal.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 54, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 823 - Animal Shelters › Section 823.001. Definitions

Sec. 823.001.  DEFINITIONS.  In this chapter:
(1)  "Animal shelter" means a facility that keeps or legally impounds stray, homeless, abandoned, or unwanted animals.
(2)  Repealed by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1, Sec. 3.1639(120), eff. April 2, 2015.
(3)  Repealed by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1, Sec. 3.1639(120), eff. April 2, 2015.
(4)  "Department" means the Department of State Health Services.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
Amended by:
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1 (S.B. 219), Sec. 3.1603, eff. April 2, 2015.
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1 (S.B. 219), Sec. 3.1639(120), eff. April 2, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 823 - Animal Shelters › Section 823.002. Exemption for Certain Counties, Clinics, and Facilities

Sec. 823.002.  EXEMPTION FOR CERTAIN COUNTIES, CLINICS, AND FACILITIES.  This chapter does not apply to:
(1)  a county having a population of less than 75,000;
(2)  a veterinary medicine clinic;  or
(3)  a livestock commission facility.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.  Amended by Acts 1991, 72nd Leg., ch. 14, Sec. 280, eff. Sept. 1, 1991.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 823 - Animal Shelters › Section 823.003. Standards for Animal Shelters; Criminal Penalty

Sec. 823.003.  STANDARDS FOR ANIMAL SHELTERS;  CRIMINAL PENALTY.  (a)  Each animal shelter  operated in this state shall comply with the standards for:
(1)  housing and sanitation as provided in Chapter 826 for quarantine and impoundment facilities; and
(2)  animal control officer training adopted under Chapter 829.
(b)  An animal shelter shall separate animals in its custody at all times by species, by sex (if known), and if the animals are not related to one another, by size.
(c)  An animal shelter may not confine healthy animals with sick, injured, or diseased animals.
(d)  Each person who operates an animal shelter shall employ a veterinarian at least once a year to inspect the shelter to determine whether it complies with the requirements of this chapter and Chapter 829.  The veterinarian shall file copies of the veterinarian's report with the person operating the shelter and with the department on forms prescribed by the department.
(e)  The executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission may require each person operating an animal shelter to keep records of the date and disposition of animals in its custody, to maintain the records on the business premises of the animal shelter, and to make the records available for inspection at reasonable times.
(f)  A person commits an offense if the person substantially violates this section.  An offense under this subsection is a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1331 (S.B. 1562), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2007.
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1 (S.B. 219), Sec. 3.1604, eff. April 2, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 823 - Animal Shelters › Section 823.004. Microchip Scan Required

Sec. 823.004.  MICROCHIP SCAN REQUIRED.  As soon as practicable after an animal is placed in the custody of an animal shelter or a releasing agency as defined by Section 828.001, including an animal rescue organization, the shelter, agency, or organization shall scan the animal to determine whether a microchip is implanted in the animal.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 136 (H.B. 604), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 823 - Animal Shelters › Section 823.005. Advisory Committee

Sec. 823.005.  ADVISORY COMMITTEE.  (a)  The governing body of a county or municipality in which an animal shelter is located shall appoint an advisory committee to assist in complying with the requirements of this chapter.
(b)  The advisory committee must be composed of at least one licensed veterinarian, one county or municipal official, one person whose duties include the daily operation of an animal shelter, and one representative from an animal welfare organization.
(c)  The advisory committee shall meet at least three times a year.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 823 - Animal Shelters › Section 823.007. Injunction

Sec. 823.007.  INJUNCTION.  A court of competent jurisdiction may, on the petition of any person, prohibit by injunction the substantial violation of this chapter.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 823 - Animal Shelters › Section 823.008. Enforcement by County

Sec. 823.008.  ENFORCEMENT BY COUNTY.  (a)  A county may enforce this chapter.
(b)  This section does not authorize a county to establish standards for operating an animal shelter.
(c)  A county may not enforce this chapter at an animal shelter operated by a municipality.
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 924 (H.B. 3004), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 823 - Animal Shelters › Section 823.009. Civil Penalty

Sec. 823.009.  CIVIL PENALTY.  (a)  A person may not cause, suffer, allow, or permit a violation of this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter.
(b)  A person who violates this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter shall be assessed a civil penalty.  A civil penalty under this chapter may not be less than $100 or more than $500 for each violation and for each day of a continuing violation.  This subsection does not apply at an animal shelter operated by a municipality.
(c)  If it appears that a person has violated, is violating, or is threatening to violate this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter, the county or municipality in which the violation occurs may institute a civil suit in district court for:
(1)  injunctive relief to restrain the person from continuing the violation or threat of violation;
(2)  the assessment and recovery of the civil penalty; or
(3)  both injunctive relief and the civil penalty.
(d)  A bond is not required in an action brought under this section.
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 924 (H.B. 3004), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 824 - Kennels › Section 824.001. Definitions

Sec. 824.001.  DEFINITIONS.  In this chapter:
(1)  "Fire protection sprinkler system" has the meaning assigned by Section 766.051.
(2)  "Kennel" means a facility, including a veterinary medicine clinic, that provides boarding and related services to dogs or cats for breeding, sheltering, training, hunting, or similar purposes in exchange for compensation or other consideration.
Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 294 (H.B. 2063), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 824 - Kennels › Section 824.002. Exceptions to Applicability of Chapter

Sec. 824.002.  EXCEPTIONS TO APPLICABILITY OF CHAPTER.  This chapter does not apply to:
(1)  an animal shelter as defined by Chapter 823; or
(2)  a kennel that boards not more than three dogs or cats at any time.
Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 294 (H.B. 2063), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 824 - Kennels › Section 824.003. Required Informed Consent for Boarding or Providing Services to Dog or Cat to Be Left Unattended

Sec. 824.003.  REQUIRED INFORMED CONSENT FOR BOARDING OR PROVIDING SERVICES TO DOG OR CAT TO BE LEFT UNATTENDED.  A kennel owner or operator who is boarding or providing services to a dog or cat at the kennel may not leave the dog or cat unattended without an employee present unless:
(1)  the kennel owner or operator provides to the owner of the dog or cat written notice that:
(A)  the dog or cat will be left unattended at the kennel without an employee present during the hours specified in the notice; and
(B)  if the kennel is not equipped with a functioning fire protection sprinkler system, the facility does not have a fire protection sprinkler system; and
(2)  the owner of the dog or cat provides to the kennel owner or operator a signed document consenting to the dog or cat being left unattended as provided in the notice.
Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 294 (H.B. 2063), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 824 - Kennels › Section 824.004. Civil Penalty

Sec. 824.004.  CIVIL PENALTY.  (a)  A kennel owner or operator who violates Section 824.003 is liable for a civil penalty in an amount equal to $500 for each animal subject to the violation and for each day the violation continues.
(b)  The attorney general or the appropriate district or county attorney may:
(1)  bring an action on behalf of this state to collect the civil penalty under this section; and
(2)  recover attorney's fees and costs incurred in bringing the action.
Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 294 (H.B. 2063), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter A. Cooperation Between State and Federal Agencies in Controlling Predatory Animals and Rodents › Section 825.001. Cooperation Between State and Federal Agencies in Controlling Predatory Animals and Rodents

Sec. 825.001.  COOPERATION BETWEEN STATE AND FEDERAL AGENCIES IN CONTROLLING PREDATORY ANIMALS AND RODENTS.  The state shall cooperate through The Texas A&M University System with the appropriate federal officers and agencies in controlling coyotes, mountain lions, bobcats, Russian boars, and other predatory animals and in controlling prairie dogs, pocket gophers, jackrabbits, ground squirrels, rats, and other rodent pests to protect livestock, food and feed supplies, crops, and ranges.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter A. Cooperation Between State and Federal Agencies in Controlling Predatory Animals and Rodents › Section 825.002. Cooperative Agreement

Sec. 825.002.  COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT.  The director of the Texas Agricultural Extension Service shall execute a cooperative agreement with the appropriate federal officers or agencies to perform the cooperative work in predatory animal and rodent control in the manner and under the regulations stated in the agreement.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter A. Cooperation Between State and Federal Agencies in Controlling Predatory Animals and Rodents › Section 825.003. Expenditure of Appropriations

Sec. 825.003.  EXPENDITURE OF APPROPRIATIONS.  The state funds appropriated to administer this subchapter shall be spent in amounts as authorized by the Board of Regents of The Texas A&M University System and disbursed on vouchers or payrolls certified by the director of the extension service.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter A. Cooperation Between State and Federal Agencies in Controlling Predatory Animals and Rodents › Section 825.004. Appropriations by Local Governments

Sec. 825.004.  APPROPRIATIONS BY LOCAL GOVERNMENTS.  The commissioners court of a county or the governing body of a municipality may appropriate funds to perform predatory animal and rodent control work described by this subchapter and, in cooperation with federal and state authorities, may employ labor and purchase and provide supplies required to effectively perform that work.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter A. Cooperation Between State and Federal Agencies in Controlling Predatory Animals and Rodents › Section 825.005. Sale of Furs, Skins, and Specimens

Sec. 825.005.  SALE OF FURS, SKINS, AND SPECIMENS.  (a)  Except as provided by Subsection (b), all furs, skins, and specimens of value taken by hunters or trappers paid from state funds under this subchapter shall be sold under rules adopted by The Texas A&M University System.  The proceeds of the sales shall be deposited to the credit of the fund established for predatory animal and rodent control.
(b)  Any specimen taken under this subchapter may be presented free of charge to any state, county, or federal institution for scientific purposes.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter A. Cooperation Between State and Federal Agencies in Controlling Predatory Animals and Rodents › Section 825.006. Bounties Prohibited

Sec. 825.006.  BOUNTIES PROHIBITED.  (a)  A hunter or trapper acting under this subchapter may not collect a bounty from a county or any other source for an animal taken under this subchapter.
(b)  The scalp of each animal taken under this subchapter shall be destroyed and each skin that has commercial value shall be sold.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter A. Cooperation Between State and Federal Agencies in Controlling Predatory Animals and Rodents › Section 825.007. Construction With Parks and Wildlife Code

Sec. 825.007.  CONSTRUCTION WITH PARKS AND WILDLIFE CODE.  Section 71.004(b), Parks and Wildlife Code, does not apply to a hunter or trapper while performing duties under this subchapter.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter A. Cooperation Between State and Federal Agencies in Controlling Predatory Animals and Rodents › Section 825.008. Tampering With Traps; Criminal Penalty

Sec. 825.008.  TAMPERING WITH TRAPS;  CRIMINAL PENALTY.  (a)  A person commits an offense if the person maliciously or wilfully tampers with all or any part of a trap set under this subchapter or removes a trap from the position in which it is placed by a hunter or trapper acting under this subchapter.
(b)  An offense under this section is punishable by a fine of not less than $50 or more than $200.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter A. Cooperation Between State and Federal Agencies in Controlling Predatory Animals and Rodents › Section 825.009. Stealing Traps; Criminal Penalty

Sec. 825.009.  STEALING TRAPS;  CRIMINAL PENALTY.  (a)  A person commits an offense if the person steals or fraudulently takes a trap belonging to the state or the United States Department of the Interior.
(b)  An offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $100 or more than $200.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter A. Cooperation Between State and Federal Agencies in Controlling Predatory Animals and Rodents › Section 825.010. Stealing Animals From Traps; Criminal Penalty

Sec. 825.010.  STEALING ANIMALS FROM TRAPS;  CRIMINAL PENALTY.  (a)  A person commits an offense if the person steals an animal listed in Section 825.001 from a trap set under this subchapter or takes the animal from the trap without authority.
(b)  An offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $100 or more than $200.
(c)  An animal stolen or taken in violation of this section is the property of the state.  A complaint alleging a violation of this section must allege that the animal is owned by the state, and the only proof necessary to establish ownership shall consist of proving that the animal was taken from a trap that had been set by a hunter or trapper acting under this subchapter.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter B. Purchase of Poison to Destroy Certain Animal Pests › Section 825.021. Commissioners Court May Purchase Poison

Sec. 825.021.  COMMISSIONERS COURT MAY PURCHASE POISON.  (a)  The commissioners court of a county may purchase poisons and related accessories required by citizens of the county to destroy prairie dogs, wildcats, gophers, ground squirrels, wolves, coyotes, rats, English sparrows, and ravens.
(b)  The commissioners court may furnish the poison to citizens of the county free or at cost.
(c)  The commissioners court shall pay for the poison from the general fund of the county and shall deposit the proceeds of any sale to the credit of that fund.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter B. Purchase of Poison to Destroy Certain Animal Pests › Section 825.022. Notice Concerning Poison

Sec. 825.022.  NOTICE CONCERNING POISON.  (a)  The commissioners court of a county acting under this subchapter shall determine the days on which the poison will be put out and shall give notice at least 20 days before the first day it is put out.
(b)  The notice required by this section must be:
(1)  published in at least one county newspaper, if one is available, for three successive issues;  and
(2)  posted in public places.
(c)  The notice must state when the poison will be put out, the fact that it may be obtained from the commissioners court, and the terms on which it may be obtained.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter B. Purchase of Poison to Destroy Certain Animal Pests › Section 825.024. Duties of Land Holders, Lessees, and Tenants

Sec. 825.024.  DUTIES OF LAND HOLDERS, LESSEES, AND TENANTS.  (a)  Each land holder whose premises are infested with any pests listed in Section 825.021 shall obtain and apply the poison as provided in the plans furnished by the commissioner of agriculture.
(b)  Each lessee or tenant occupying any premises under contract shall obtain the poison and destroy any pests listed in Section 825.021 that infest the premises.  Any expenses incurred under this subsection by a lessee or tenant shall be charged against the landowner and are collectible as any other valid debt.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter C. Bounties for Predatory Animals › Section 825.031. Bounties for Predatory Animals

Sec. 825.031.  BOUNTIES FOR PREDATORY ANIMALS.  (a)  The commissioners court of a county may pay bounties for killing predatory animals not listed on any state or federal protected species list.
(b)  The commissioners court may determine which animals are predatory animals in that county.
(c)  The commissioners court may determine the amount of a bounty to be paid under this section for each animal.  The bounty shall be paid from the general fund of the county by a warrant drawn on that fund by the county judge on presentation of proof of destruction required by the commissioners court.  A bounty paid under this section may not exceed $50 for each animal unless approved by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission.
(d)  The commissioners court may determine eligibility criteria for receiving a bounty under this section.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.  Amended by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 84, Sec. 1,2, eff. Aug. 30, 1993;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1279, Sec. 1, eff. Aug. 30, 1999.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter C. Bounties for Predatory Animals › Section 825.032. Angelina, Henderson, or Trinity County: Wolves and Other Predatory Animals

Sec. 825.032.  ANGELINA, HENDERSON, OR TRINITY COUNTY:  WOLVES AND OTHER PREDATORY ANIMALS.  (a)  The Commissioners Court of Angelina, Henderson, or Trinity County may pay bounties for the destruction of wolves and other predatory animals in the county.
(b)  The commissioners court may, by resolution entered on its minutes, provide for the destruction of wolves and other predatory animals, the method of destruction and proof necessary to entitle the person destroying the animal to receive the bounty, and the amount of the bounty to be paid for each animal.
(c)  A bounty paid under this section shall be paid by warrant drawn on the general fund of the county by the county judge on presentation of proof of destruction required by the commissioners court.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter C. Bounties for Predatory Animals › Section 825.033. Aransas, Bee, Refugio, or San Patricio County: Rattlesnakes, Wolves, Coyotes, Panthers, Bobcats, and Other Predatory Animals

Sec. 825.033.  ARANSAS, BEE, REFUGIO, OR SAN PATRICIO COUNTY:  RATTLESNAKES, WOLVES, COYOTES, PANTHERS, BOBCATS, AND OTHER PREDATORY ANIMALS.  (a)  The Commissioners Court of Aransas, Bee, Refugio, or San Patricio County may pay bounties for the destruction of rattlesnakes, wolves, coyotes, panthers, bobcats, and other predatory animals in the county to preserve game and to protect the interests of livestock and poultry raisers.
(b)  The commissioners court may set the bounty in an amount not to exceed:
(1)  $5 for each wolf, coyote, panther, or bobcat;
(2)  50 cents for each raccoon, skunk, opossum, or other similar animal;  and
(3)  10 cents for each rattlesnake.
(c)  The commissioners court shall, by resolution entered on its minutes, specify the amount of the bounty to be paid for each animal and prescribe regulations and require proof necessary to protect the county's interest.
(d)  The bounties paid under this section shall be paid by warrant drawn on the general fund of the county by the county judge.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter C. Bounties for Predatory Animals › Section 825.034. Panola County: Wolves

Sec. 825.034.  PANOLA COUNTY:  WOLVES.  (a)  The Commissioners Court of Panola County may pay bounties on wolves in order to preserve game.
(b)  The commissioners court may set the bounty in an amount not to exceed $25 for each wolf killed.  The bounty shall be paid from the general fund of the county.
(c)  The commissioners court may adopt rules necessary to protect the interest of the county and may require proof necessary to assure that one wolf has been killed for each wolf paid for.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter C. Bounties for Predatory Animals › Section 825.035. Borden County: Rabbits

Sec. 825.035.  BORDEN COUNTY:  RABBITS.  (a)  The Commissioners Court of Borden County may pay bounties for lawfully killing wild rabbits in the county to prevent property damage.
(b)  The bounty may not exceed 10 cents for each rabbit and shall be paid from the general fund of the county.
(c)  The commissioners court may adopt rules necessary to protect the interest of the county and may require proof necessary to assure that one rabbit has been killed for each rabbit paid for.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter C. Bounties for Predatory Animals › Section 825.036. Prairie Dogs

Sec. 825.036.  PRAIRIE DOGS.  Prairie dogs are a public nuisance.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter C. Bounties for Predatory Animals › Section 825.037. Effect of Other Laws

Sec. 825.037.  EFFECT OF OTHER LAWS.  This subchapter does not authorize:
(1)  the killing of an animal if the killing is prohibited by federal or state law or rule;  or
(2)  the payment of a bounty for killing an animal if the killing is prohibited by federal or state law or rule.
Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 10 - Health and Safety of Animals › Chapter 825 - Predatory Animals and Animal Pests › Subchapter D. Control of Predatory Animals › Section 825.051. Municipal Control of Coyotes

Sec. 825.051.  MUNICIPAL CONTROL OF COYOTES.  A municipality with a population density of more than 2,500 persons per square  mile may capture, relocate, or euthanize a coyote located within the municipality or the municipality's extraterritorial jurisdiction.  The municipality may request assistance from Texas Wildlife Services to capture, relocate, or euthanize a coyote.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1333 (H.B. 4544), Sec. 1, eff. June 14, 2019.