“No, it is not illegal to get rid of pigeons in Dallas—as long as it’s done humanely and without violating local ordinances. Texas law allows feral pigeons to be removed or euthanized, but methods like shooting within city limits are strictly prohibited.”
Pigeons might seem harmless at first glance, but in a city like Dallas, they can quickly turn into a serious nuisance. Between the constant cooing, the acidic droppings that damage buildings, and the risk of spreading disease, it’s no surprise that many homeowners want them gone—for good. Still, one big question often holds people back: Is it even legal to get rid of pigeons in Dallas?
That’s a fair concern, and the answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. Different layers of law come into play—federal, state, and local—and they don’t always say the same thing. In this post, we’ll break down exactly what you can and can’t do when it comes to pigeon removal in Dallas. You’ll get a clear picture of what’s legal, what’s not, and how AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas can help you solve the problem the right way.
Understanding the Legal Landscape
Before you take matters into your own hands, it’s important to understand how pigeon removal is regulated. While some birds are protected under federal law, feral pigeons—also known as rock doves—are not among them. That means homeowners in Dallas aren’t breaking federal rules by getting rid of these birds, as long as they do it humanely.
Texas state law backs this up. According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, feral pigeons can legally be trapped or removed at any time without a permit. They’re grouped with other non-native nuisance birds like starlings and house sparrows, which are exempt from protections that apply to native species. So far, so good—but now, let’s look at how Dallas city ordinances might affect your options.
City of Dallas Regulations 📜
In Dallas, state law allows the removal of feral pigeons, but local rules still matter—especially when it comes to discharging firearms. According to Dallas City Code Section 31‑4, it’s illegal to fire any weapon—including guns, rifles, and shotguns—in any place not classified as a shooting range or public space approved. So even though Texas law permits killing pigeons, shooting them within Dallas city limits is a violation of local ordinances.
Additionally, organized pigeon shoots—or any activity where birds are released just to be shot for sport—can be prosecuted under Texas cruelty-to-animals laws, and Dallas can enforce those stricter provisions . In short, if you’re dealing with pigeons, you can legally remove them—but using guns or running a pigeon shoot in the city is off-limits.
What’s Legal vs Illegal in Dallas 🏙️
Here’s the lowdown on what you can and can’t do when it comes to handling pigeons in Dallas:
✅ Legal Actions
- Trapping, excluding, deterring, or humanely euthanizing feral pigeons using non-firearm methods—like cage traps or pellet guns—is permitted under Texas law. Feral pigeons aren’t federally protected, and state law (Parks & Wildlife Code § 64.002(b)) even allows their nests and eggs to be destroyed.
- Removing nests, egg clutches, and debris as long as you’re not dealing with protected species—again, totally fine per state code .
❌ Actions That Are Illegal
- Shooting pigeons with firearms within Dallas city limits is strictly prohibited. Dallas City Code § 31‑4 bans discharging any firearm—including rifles and shotguns—except in designated shooting areas.
- Organized pigeon shoots for sport—like releasing birds just to be shot—can be prosecuted under Texas animal cruelty laws (Penal Code § 42.092) and also face local restrictions.
⚠️ Gray Areas & Important Nuances
- While Texas law allows the killing of feral pigeons, it doesn’t specify methods—so how you do it matters. Using traps or DIY euthanasia is okay; setting up a full-blown “shooting event” definitely crosses the line.
- The difference between humane control and cruelty is crucial. Cruel treatment—like prolonged suffering or baiting just to kill for sport—is a misdemeanor or felony under state law.
Effective & Compliant Pigeon Control Methods 🛠️
Once you’ve determined that legal removal is possible in Dallas, the next step is choosing methods that work—and stay within the lines. Here are the best practices used by pros like AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas:
1. Physical Exclusion
- Bird Spikes
Thin, stainless-steel spikes installed along ledges, gutters, and signs prevent pigeons from landing and nesting—they’re humane and long-lasting. These spikes typically last 10 years and don’t injure birds, just deter them . - Bird Netting
UV-resistant netting creates a barrier that physically keeps pigeons out of attics, under eaves, or inside vents—an invisible yet effective solution.
2. Deterrent Devices
- Acoustic Repellents
Devices emit predator calls or distress sounds, scaring pigeons away. Solar-powered options make them easy to install and cost-effective for patios or rooftop areas . - Visual Deterrents
Reflective objects, “bird spiders” (wind-rotating deterrents), or UV‑reflective tape disrupt pigeon patterns—especially useful alongside other barriers.
3. Trapping & Humane Lethal Control
- Cage / Funnel Traps
Professional-grade traps lure pigeons and allow for humane euthanasia at low cost. Texas law permits this provided it’s done responsibly - Chemical Avitrol Treatments
Restricted-use avicide baits (by licensed professionals) can scare off flocks with minimal bird mortality—ideal for large or commercial spaces.
4. Habitat Modification
- Cleanup & Prevention
Regularly clear droppings, food scraps, and nesting materials to make your property less inviting. - Eliminate Food Sources
Secure trash lids, discourage outdoor feeding, and bypass open pet food to reduce pigeon attraction.
5. Professional Services
Companies like AAAC use a combination of these strategies, tailored to your home’s layout:
| Method | Why it’s smart for Dallas |
|---|---|
| Inspection + Netting/Spikes | Blocks pigeons at the source |
| Deterrents + Trapping | Keeps flocks away long-term |
| Post-treatment Cleanup | Reduces future problems |
This multi-faceted approach isn’t just effective—it ensures legal compliance and humane handling, with lasting results. Up next: why hiring experts is worth it!
Why Hire Wildlife Removal Experts in Dallas?
Hiring professionals like AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas is one of the smartest ways to deal with a pigeon problem legally and effectively. Our team understands the ins and outs of local and state regulations, so you won’t have to worry about violating firearm discharge laws or unintentionally breaking animal cruelty statutes. We take care of everything with full legal compliance, giving you peace of mind from the start.
We also use humane, proven strategies that go beyond just scaring the birds away. From installing bird spikes and netting to setting up safe traps and cleaning up nesting debris, our approach targets both the pigeons and the reasons they’re sticking around. This not only removes the current problem but helps prevent it from coming back. Plus, handling pigeon waste and nesting materials can pose real health risks—our trained technicians do it safely, with proper gear and sanitization protocols. On top of all that, we stand by our work with follow-up services and warranties, so you know the job is done right the first time.
Conclusion
So, is it illegal to get rid of pigeons in Dallas? Nope—as long as you’re following the rules. Texas law allows for the humane removal of feral pigeons, and while Dallas city ordinances limit certain methods like using firearms, there are still plenty of legal and effective ways to handle the problem.
Whether you’re tired of droppings on your rooftop or frustrated with constant cooing, the safest and smartest solution is to call in the pros. AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas has the tools, training, and local expertise to legally evict pigeons and keep them from coming back.
Call to Action
If pigeons have turned your Dallas property into their personal hangout, it’s time to take action the right way. AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas offers safe, humane, and fully legal pigeon control tailored to your home or business. From expert trapping to long-term exclusion strategies, we make sure those birds don’t come back.
Don’t wait until the droppings pile up or the nesting spreads—give us a call today to schedule a thorough inspection. Let our licensed team handle the mess and bring back your peace of mind. Pigeons may be persistent, but so are we.
