Clark County, WA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Livestock use
- Allowed in all zoning districts
- Large livestock
- Over 500 pounds
- Large-livestock setback
- 20 ft from all property lines
- Plan trigger
- 2 substantiated household complaints
- Pre-2008 uses
- Exempt from the section
Summary
Livestock use is allowed in all zoning districts in unincorporated Clark County. New urban-area livestock structures for large animals must sit 20 feet from all property lines, and urban livestock must follow best-management practices to control odor, noise, and manure.
The development standards of the underlying zone shall apply, except that the setbacks for new structures used for large livestock shall be twenty (20) feet from all property lines.
Full Breakdown
Under CCC 40.260.235, "livestock" means horses, mules, burros, cattle, camelids, goats, sheep, swine, rabbits, and poultry; large livestock weigh over 500 pounds. Livestock uses are allowed in all zoning districts. For new urban-area uses begun after January 1, 2008, structures for large livestock must be set back 20 feet from all property lines, and owners must apply best-management practices covering housing, animal husbandry, manure management, and odor/noise. A formal livestock management plan is only required when two households file substantiated complaints and mediation does not resolve them. Uses established before 2008 are exempt.
Violations & Fines
Failure to provide and comply with a required livestock management plan constitutes a nuisance violation enforced under the civil provisions of Title 32.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need county approval to keep livestock?
How far must a barn be from the property line?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Clark County
How Clark County compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Clark County to another location·View the Washington animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.