Cody Montes, a longtime horseback rider in Fort Worth’s Stockyards, was recently confronted by security guards who threatened fines for parking horses on the lawn near the RFD-TV building, sparking frustration and an online petition opposing what locals see as an unfair crackdown on horseback riders. Montes and supporters argue that horseback riding is a key part of the Stockyards’ cowboy culture and that enforcement appears inconsistent, especially since riders involved in the official cattle drive allow tourists to interact with their horses without penalty. City officials emphasize that public safety and traffic laws must be upheld in the busy entertainment district, noting that horses must follow the same traffic rules as vehicles and that obstructing sidewalks could lead to citations.

Fort Worth’s policy requires horses on roadways to obey traffic laws, but there is ambiguity regarding horses on sidewalks, with police historically using discretion rather than issuing citations. While Montes understands the need for safety, she believes riders in less congested areas should be allowed to enjoy the Stockyards without interference. The debate highlights tensions between preserving local Western heritage and managing public safety in a popular tourist area, with city leaders urging riders to use common sense and respect regulations to protect everyone’s safety.