No, you generally cannot legally own a native fox in Texas but certain non-native fox species may be legal if your county allows it and you follow strict rules. Texas does not give a blanket “yes” for all fox ownership. Instead, the law depends on the species of fox, where you live, and whether your county has approved that type of exotic pet. So the native Texas foxes are illegal to keep as pets. Some exotic, non-native foxes can be legal with the right permits and local approval.
Below is everything you need to know.
What Texas State Law Says About Fox Ownership
Texas regulates wildlife and exotic animals under several laws, but the most important part here is that counties have the authority to decide what exotic animals residents can keep. This is stated in the Texas Local Government Code, Chapter 240, which allows counties to regulate or prohibit exotic animals in unincorporated areas. Cities can also make their own rules.
At the state level:
- Native foxes (Red fox, Gray fox)
These are classified as Texas wildlife. Private ownership as pets is not allowed. These species cannot be possessed without special wildlife permits, and permits are generally granted only for wildlife rehabilitation or scientific purposes — not for personal pets.
- Non-native foxes (e.g., Fennec fox, Bat-eared fox, Pale fox)
These species are not considered native wildlife and may be allowed in Texas depending on county rules. Statewide law does not automatically ban them, but it also does not guarantee approval. Counties decide whether you may keep them and whether a permit is required.
The Texas State Law Library also confirms that wild and exotic animals are regulated at both the state and county level, meaning you must follow both sets of rules.
County Rules Matter More Than Most People Realize
Even though state law gives some room for non-native fox ownership, your county can override that. Some counties allow exotic foxes with:
- Proof of captive-bred origin
- A secure enclosure
- Up-to-date veterinary paperwork
- A county-issued exotic-animal permit
Other counties completely ban foxes, regardless of species.
For example:
A breeder might legally sell fennec foxes in Texas, but if your county bans exotic mammals, you still cannot keep one. This is why you absolutely must check your county animal-control office before purchasing.
Native Foxes Are Always Illegal as Pets
One rule is consistent across Texas:
You cannot legally own a native Red fox or Gray fox as a pet.
They are protected as native wildlife. Keeping one without special wildlife permits is illegal, and permits for personal ownership are not issued. Transporting, capturing, or buying native foxes as pets is also illegal.
What It Takes to Legally Own a NON-Native Fox in Texas
If your county allows exotic foxes, you must:
- Choose a non-native species (like a fennec or pale fox)
- Confirm your county and city regulations
- Get a permit if required
- Prove the fox is captive-bred, not wild-caught
- Build secure, escape-proof housing
- Find an exotic-animal veterinarian
- Maintain health/vaccine records
Foxes are high-maintenance animals. Even when legal, they are not “easy pets.”
Why Many People Believe Foxes Are Fully Legal in Texas
Texas is often listed online as a state where fox ownership is “legal with a permit.” That statement is half-true. Texas can allow exotic foxes, but counties decide whether they will allow them. Also, misleading articles often don’t differentiate between native and non-native fox species.
Final Word
Texas does not have a statewide ban on exotic foxes, but the law is complicated and depends heavily on where you live. If you want to own a fox legally, your first step is always checking local regulations and making sure the species is non-native and properly documented.
