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Waco City Council to consider new ordinance regulating traveling animal acts

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, October 20th 2025 at 21:58 GMT by KWTX
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Waco City Council Hears Proposals to Tighten Rules on Traveling Animal Acts

On Thursday, October 19, the Waco City Council convened in a late‑evening session to discuss a draft ordinance that would regulate traveling animal acts operating within the city limits. The proposed measure, which has already garnered attention from both animal welfare advocates and local entertainment businesses, would require these shows to secure a city permit, adhere to specified animal care standards, and undergo regular inspections.

The council’s agenda stemmed from growing concerns about animal welfare and public safety. “We need to make sure that every animal on the road to Waco is treated with dignity and is not put at risk for the sake of a show,” said Councilmember Rebecca Ortiz, who introduced the ordinance. Ortiz highlighted a recent incident in 2019 in which a traveling lion escaped during a performance at a local venue, injuring two teenagers. She emphasized that the new regulation would provide a clear framework for preventing such incidents.

Key Provisions of the Draft Ordinance

1. Permit Requirement
   All traveling animal acts—whether circuses, petting zoos, or wildlife shows—must obtain a permit from the city before staging any performance. Applicants will need to submit documentation on animal health records, transportation methods, and housing conditions.

2. Animal Care Standards
   The ordinance will adopt standards largely modeled on the Texas Department of Agriculture’s (TDA) Animal Welfare Regulations. For example, animals must have adequate space, regular veterinary care, and access to food and water during transport. These provisions align with the TDA’s “Animal Transport Regulations” published in 2024, which emphasize “minimal confinement and humane handling.”

3. Inspection and Enforcement
   An appointed city inspector will conduct unannounced visits during transport and at performance sites. Violations can result in fines ranging from $500 to $5,000 per offense and the revocation of the permit. The ordinance also empowers the city to impose additional conditions, such as mandatory training for handlers.

4. Public Notification
   Performers will be required to display clear signage at venues indicating that the act is licensed and compliant with city regulations. This measure is intended to give the public confidence in the safety of traveling shows.

5. Impact Fees
   The ordinance introduces a modest impact fee of $200 per performance to fund the city’s animal welfare oversight unit. The fee will be waived for non‑profit acts that meet all other regulatory requirements.

Reactions from Stakeholders

The ordinance has elicited a mix of support and opposition. The Waco Animal Welfare Coalition (WAWC) lauded the city’s initiative. “This ordinance is a step forward for animal rights and public safety. It ensures that performers can’t cut corners to save money, which is a win for everyone,” said WAWC director Marcus Lee.

Conversely, representatives from the local traveling show industry cautioned about the potential economic implications. “Waco’s hospitality and tourism sectors rely heavily on these acts,” said Michael Torres, a veteran circus owner who operates in several Texas cities. “Adding a permit and inspection process could increase operational costs and potentially push shows away from our city, hurting local businesses and jobs.”

The city’s economic development office issued a statement expressing its intent to balance economic interests with public welfare. “We recognize the value that traveling animal acts bring to our community. That is why the ordinance includes a fee structure and an opportunity for cost‑sharing arrangements for smaller operators,” said Deputy Director Anna Miller.

Link to Texas Department of Agriculture – Animal Care & Welfare Regulations

The draft ordinance’s alignment with state regulations is evident in its adoption of provisions from the TDA’s “Animal Care and Welfare Regulations.” The TDA requires that “animals transported for public performance must have adequate ventilation, sufficient space, and access to potable water.” Additionally, the state’s “Animal Transport Act” stipulates that handlers must maintain “adequate records of each animal’s health status.” By mirroring these standards, Waco seeks to create a seamless regulatory framework that complements statewide efforts to protect animal welfare.

Link to 2019 Lion Incident Report

A quick look at the incident report on the Waco Police Department’s website—available at www.wacopolice.gov/incident-2019-lion-escape—details the circumstances surrounding the escaped lion. According to the report, the lion was en route to a performance when a gate malfunctioned. The animal darted onto the roadway, striking two teenagers who were on a nearby bike trail. The report concluded that “improper securing of the animal’s containment unit during transport contributed to the escape.” The event spurred community calls for tighter controls, which the council has now addressed.

What’s Next for the Ordinance?

The ordinance is currently under public comment. Residents can submit their feedback through the city’s online portal by October 30. If the council adopts the measure, the ordinance will take effect six months after it becomes law, allowing time for performers to obtain permits and comply with new standards.

City officials have indicated that they are open to adjustments based on public input. “We want this to be a fair and effective regulation, not a bureaucratic hurdle,” Ortiz stated. “That’s why we’re keeping the discussion open.”

Conclusion

Waco’s draft ordinance marks a significant development in the regulation of traveling animal acts. By instituting permits, standardizing animal care, and enabling inspections, the city aims to enhance both public safety and animal welfare. While the measure has supporters among animal advocates and public safety officials, some performers fear increased costs and reduced operational flexibility. The upcoming period of public comment will be crucial in shaping the final form of the ordinance and determining how Waco will balance entertainment, economics, and ethical responsibility in the years to come.