Kent County, MI Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Who zones livestock
- Your city/township
- County rule
- Stray-livestock control only
- Zoning statute
- MCL 125.3101
- Stray cite
- Ordinance Section 11(f)
- First-offense fine
- $100
Summary
Kent County does not zone livestock. Whether you may keep horses, cattle, goats, or sheep is set by your city or township under Michigan's Zoning Enabling Act. The county only requires owners to keep livestock from running at large.
Stray Livestock. The Owner or Custodian of livestock or poultry shall prevent such animals from running at large on public or private property without consent of the property owner provided, however that this section shall not prohibit leading or driving livestock, under the Owner or Custodian's supervision, along a public highway.
Full Breakdown
Because Kent County land sits inside cities, villages, and zoned townships, livestock keeping is governed by municipal zoning under the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act (MCL 125.3101 et seq.), not by the county. Your local ordinance sets minimum acreage, permitted animals, and setbacks from lot lines and dwellings. The county Animal Control Ordinance defines 'livestock' to include horses, cattle, sheep, goats, swine, and fur-bearing animals raised in captivity, and Section 11(f) requires owners to prevent them from running at large on public or others' private property -- though it does not prohibit driving livestock along a public highway under supervision.
Violations & Fines
Zoning limits are enforced by your city or township. Allowing livestock to run at large is a county municipal civil infraction: $100 first offense, $200 for a repeat within five years, plus costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much land do I need for a horse?
Can I drive livestock on a road?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Kent County
How Kent County compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Kent County to another location·View the Michigan animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.