Lima, OH Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Land minimum
- Two acres
- City section
- Lima CO 618.04
- Covers
- Cattle, horses, goats, swine
- Nuisance limit
- Lima CO 618.09
- At-large penalty
- Minor misdemeanor + damages
Summary
Lima prohibits keeping farm animals or fowl inside the city unless the owner has at least two acres of land where they are kept. Cattle, horses, goats, pigs, and similar livestock are therefore barred on typical city lots.
No person shall keep or harbor or feed any farm animals or fowl within the corporate limits of the City unless such person is the owner, or has the legal right to possession, of a minimum of two acres of land on which the farm animals or fowl are kept or harbored.
Full Breakdown
Under Lima Codified Ordinance 618.04, no person may keep, harbor, or feed any farm animals or fowl within the corporate limits unless they own or legally possess a minimum of two acres of land where the animals are kept. This single acreage threshold controls all livestock, from horses and cattle to goats, sheep, and swine. Even on qualifying acreage, livestock must comply with Lima CO 618.09, which prohibits keeping any animal so as to create noxious or offensive odors or unsanitary conditions that menace public health, comfort, or safety. Animals found running at large on public ways or another's premises are a minor misdemeanor with owner liability for damages.
Violations & Fines
Keeping livestock without two acres is abatable by Code Enforcement; at-large livestock is a minor misdemeanor and the owner is liable for all damage caused (618.09, 618.99).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a goat or a horse in Lima?
What if my livestock escapes onto a neighbor's land?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lima
How Lima compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Lima to another location·View the Ohio animal ordinances overview
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