Raleigh, NC Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Chapter 12, Article D governs stables for cattle, non-pygmy goats, and horses. Section 12-3031 sets a flat 200-foot buffer between any such stable and neighboring residences, then scales how many animals a lot may support: no more than one head of cattle, one non-pygmy goat, or one horse on a lot under one acre; up to three of each animal per acre on lots between one and five acres; and up to ten of each animal per acre on lots larger than five acres. The ordinance defines a pygmy goat, which falls outside these caps, as a Capra Hircus goat weighing no more than 85 pounds and standing no taller than 21 inches at the withers.

Every part of a lot used for cattle, goats, or horses must be completely enclosed, and stables must meet the construction and maintenance standards of the Wake County Board of Health as well as local zoning. Before erecting or placing a stable, § 12-3032 requires the owner to apply to both the Wake County Health Department and the City Inspection Division and obtain a permit from each. Under § 12-3033, either agency can order a noncompliant stable brought into compliance or removed within five days of notice following an investigation.

Section 12-3034 separately requires a watertight, flyproof manure bin on any stable lot under one acre, emptied and sterilized daily, with the City authorized to remove contents and bill the owner if fly maggots are found.