Bellingham, WA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Setback
- 50 feet from dwellings
- Covered species
- Horses, cattle, sheep, goats, swine
- Penalty
- Infraction, up to $250
- Enforced by
- Bellingham-Whatcom County Humane Society
Summary
Bellingham requires horses, cattle, sheep, goats and swine to be securely confined or staked out, and kept at least 50 feet from any dwelling, under BMC 7.12.060(A) in Whatcom County, Washington.
Any person being the owner or entitled to the possession of any animal of the species of horse, mule, ass, cattle, sheep, goat...or swine of any kind, shall be permitted to keep the same within the limits of the city...by securely confining the same in a stable or other building; or an enclosure surrounded by a secure, well-built fence...provided, that the same is so confined or staked out as to effectively prevent it getting within 50 feet of any dwelling or other building in which persons work or are accustomed to be.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2026-06-015, passed June 1, 2026).
Full Breakdown
BMC 7.12.060(A) lets residents keep horses, mules, cattle, sheep, goats, swine and non-residence fowl within Bellingham city limits, but only if the animal is securely confined in a stable, building, or well-built fenced enclosure, or staked out so it cannot reach any street, alley or public place. The confinement or staking must keep the animal at least 50 feet from any dwelling or building where people work or gather, or far enough from a neighbor's property to prevent damage or nuisance. Owners must keep stables, pens and premises clean; the Bellingham-Whatcom County Humane Society inspects and can order violations fixed.
Violations & Fines
Violating BMC 7.12.060 is an infraction under BMC 7.12.140, fined up to $250; the humane society can also order unsafe or unsanitary premises corrected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a horse or cow in Bellingham?
What's the fine for improperly confined livestock in Bellingham?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bellingham
How Bellingham compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Bellingham to another location·View the Washington animal ordinances overview
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