Animal Control Services
The City of De Kalb Animal Control division is dedicated to protecting public health and safety by enforcing municipal pet ordinances, managing stray populations, and mitigating rabies risks in accordance with the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
City Pet Registration
All dogs and cats over 4 months old must be registered annually with the city. Proof of current rabies vaccination is strictly required at the time of registration.
Strays & Impoundment
Impounded animals without identification tags are held for a mandatory 72-hour period before becoming property of the city for rescue transfer or adoption.
Core Municipal Ordinances
Violations of city animal ordinances may result in citations and fines issued by De Kalb Code Enforcement or local law enforcement:
- Leash Law (At-Large Ordinance): Dogs are not permitted to roam freely off the owner’s property. They must be physically restrained by a leash or behind a secure fence at all times.
- Nuisance Barking: Continuous or habitual howling, barking, or whining that disturbs the peace of the neighborhood is a citable offense.
- Livestock Limits: Keeping livestock or poultry within residential city limits is subject to specific zoning restrictions and distance requirements from adjacent residences.
- Tethering Ban: Under state law, it is illegal to leave a dog restrained outdoors with a heavy chain or without access to adequate shelter and drinkable water.
Animal Incident Triage Tool
Please use this tool to determine the correct department to contact regarding an animal issue. Do not call 911 for non-emergency nuisance complaints.