Frisco Approved New $24 Million Animal Shelter
City council selected the project to increase capacity ahead of the expiration of a county contract.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Dogs
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Frisco city council members officially approved the construction of a new 18,000-square-foot animal shelter. The $24 million facility will house 61 dogs and 30 cats as the city prepares for its transition away from a county-level contract.
Why it matters
The decision provides the city with a dedicated local facility and long-term flexibility, as the current municipal agreement with Collin County is set to expire in 2028. City officials opted for this design to balance budget constraints while ensuring enough capacity for potential future partnerships with neighboring suburbs.
The 18,000-square-foot shelter features kennels for 61 dogs and 30 cats. The facility carries an estimated $1.3 million in annual operating costs, with expectations of generating $559,000 in yearly revenue.
The players
Frisco City Council
This is the governing body responsible for the legislative decisions and budget allocations for the city of Frisco.
Collin County
This is the regional government entity that currently provides animal shelter services to Frisco under an existing contract.
The details
Frisco leadership selected the $24 million design after reviewing three distinct options, ultimately rejecting smaller and larger regional alternatives. The city will manage the site in partnership with a nonprofit agency, allowing for possible cost-sharing arrangements with the municipalities of Prosper and Celina.
Timeline
Residents began advocating for a local animal shelter in 2022.
City council approved the $24 million shelter project on October 6, 2026.
The city's current agreement with the Collin County animal shelter expires in November 2028.
Roadmap
This project marks a shift toward municipal independence in animal welfare services, moving away from reliance on regional county infrastructure. It positions Frisco to act as a potential central hub for animal care in Northern Texas by enabling future cost-sharing with nearby growing suburbs.
Residents who have campaigned for a local facility since 2022 will gain a dedicated municipal resource for pet services. The project also lays the groundwork for potential future partnerships with Prosper and Celina that could stabilize local animal control costs.
The takeaway
This decision addresses a multi-year effort by local advocates to bring animal services within city limits. By selecting a mid-range budget option, the council aims to manage long-term operating costs while maintaining the flexibility to serve surrounding communities.
What happens next
The city will begin facility construction ahead of the November 2028 expiration of the current Collin County contract.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest initiatives in the Frisco Dogs section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Dallas Morning News.
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