Texas Dog Poop Laws by County
Living in Texas with your dog comes with a lot of perks—wide open parks, dog-friendly communities, and endless sunshine. But one responsibility that applies across the board is cleaning up after your pup. While Texas doesn’t have a single state law for dog poop, counties and cities have local ordinances that you absolutely need to know.
This guide covers dog poop laws by county in Texas, so you don’t risk a fine—or worse—while walking your four-legged friend.
Is There a Statewide Law for Dog Poop in Texas?
No, Texas doesn’t have a statewide law requiring pet owners to clean up dog waste. However, most counties and cities consider uncollected feces a public nuisance. You can be cited for violating health and sanitation laws, especially in urban or high-traffic areas.
So even without a state law, your city or county probably has rules in place—and enforcement officers ready to act.
Dog Poop Laws by County in Texas
1. Harris County (Houston)
Houston has a well-enforced pooper scooper law under Code of Ordinances § 6-24. It’s illegal to allow your dog to defecate on public or private property without immediate cleanup.
Fines: $75 to $500 depending on severity and repeat offenses.
City parks and trails like Buffalo Bayou have dog waste bag stations, but don’t rely on them—bring your own. Curious about your dog’s age in human years? Use this free dog age calculator.
2. Dallas County (Dallas)
Dallas enforces sanitation laws that require pet owners to remove pet waste. Under the City Code § 7-4.8, you must clean up immediately after your dog in public areas or on someone else’s property.
- Minimum fine: $50
- Maximum: $200+
HOAs in Dallas often impose their own additional rules, especially in gated communities.
3. Travis County (Austin)
Austin takes dog waste cleanup seriously, especially due to environmental concerns around watersheds. Under City Code § 3-4-6, dog owners must pick up feces or face citations from code enforcement.
Fines: Up to $500 per violation
Austin also offers public waste stations in dog parks like Zilker Park. Still, always carry bags just in case.
4. Bexar County (San Antonio)
San Antonio requires pet owners to clean up any feces left by their animals in public or on private property without permission. This falls under their health and safety regulations.
Fines: Range from $50 to $200 for each violation
If you’re noticing signs of aging in your pet, check your dog’s age in human years to understand what they might be going through.
5. Tarrant County (Fort Worth, Arlington)
Fort Worth and Arlington both require dog owners to pick up waste immediately. It’s covered under municipal nuisance laws, and neighborhood watch groups often report violators.
Fines: $75 for a first offense and up to $200 for additional offenses.
6. Collin County (Plano, McKinney)
Plano and McKinney ordinances require the immediate removal of animal waste from public places. Residents must also carry a bag or other means to clean up during dog walks.
Park patrols and local residents actively report violations, so cleanup isn’t just courteous—it’s required.
7. Denton County (Denton, Lewisville)
Denton enforces cleanup under the city’s animal waste code. You must remove dog poop right away and dispose of it properly. Leaving waste behind can result in citations and complaints from neighbors.
Some communities even issue notices through HOA boards for repeated issues.
8. Williamson County (Round Rock, Georgetown)
Round Rock and Georgetown include pet waste management in their local ordinances. Not picking up after your dog in a public space or someone else’s yard is a fineable offense.
As pet-friendly cities, they offer many dog parks—but they expect responsibility in return.
9. El Paso County
El Paso requires pet owners to clean up after their dogs, especially in city parks and public paths. Violators can be fined under local sanitation codes, and patrols are frequent near schools and recreation areas.
Common Fines for Not Picking Up Dog Poop in Texas
| County/City | First Offense | Repeat Offense |
|---|---|---|
| Houston | $75 | Up to $500 |
| Dallas | $50 | $200+ |
| Austin | $100–$200 | $500 |
| San Antonio | $50 | $200 |
| Fort Worth | $75 | $200+ |
How to Stay Compliant (And Avoid Getting Fined)
- Always carry multiple waste bags on walks
- Use biodegradable bags for an eco-friendly option
- Dispose of dog waste in trash bins—never down drains or in parks
- Respect public parks and trails by following posted cleanup rules
As your dog ages, their needs change—especially on walks. If you want to know their real age in human years, try this helpful dog age calculator.
Even Without a Sign, You’re Still Responsible
Many Texas cities don’t post signs everywhere about cleaning up dog poop. That doesn’t mean the rule doesn’t exist. In almost every city, you’re expected to pick it up, sign or no sign.
If you’re unsure, play it safe—scoop the poop.
Why Dog Waste Cleanup Matters
Dog waste isn’t just an eyesore—it’s a health risk. Leftover poop carries bacteria and parasites that can infect other dogs, wildlife, and even people. It also pollutes waterways when washed into storm drains.
Cleaning up is a small act that keeps your community clean, safe, and welcoming.
Conclusion: Clean Up and Lead by Example
Texas may be big, but the rules about dog waste are clear no matter where you live—clean up after your dog. Whether you’re walking the trails in Austin or relaxing at a Houston dog park, being responsible protects your community and keeps things dog-friendly.
Bring bags, dispose of them properly, and lead by example. And if you’re curious about how old your dog really is, find out their age in human years here. It’s quick and gives great insight into their health needs.
Let’s keep Texas clean—one dog walk at a time.