Horry County, SC Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Definition
- Per S.C. Code § 47-4-20
- Care required
- Annual vet exam, vaccinations
- Citation
- Horry County Code § 4-23(a)
- Zoning
- Allowed districts only, § 902/§ 205
- Shelter
- Not required in rational grazing system
Summary
Horry County's large-animal rules require livestock owners to provide veterinary care, sufficient food and water, and clean, drained containment. Livestock may be kept only where zoning allows and the parcel meets the § 205 minimum lot size.
As defined by S.C. Code § 47-4-20 "livestock" mean all classes and breeds of animals, domesticated or feral, raised for use, sale, or display, must be provided adequate veterinary care includes an annual exam by a veterinarian, recommended vaccinations, preventative teeth and hoof care.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 88).
Full Breakdown
Horry County Code § 4-23(a) adopts the S.C. Code § 47-4-20 definition of livestock (all classes and breeds raised for use, sale, or display) and requires adequate veterinary care, including an annual exam, recommended vaccinations, and hoof and teeth care. Owners must supply fresh food, a constant supply of clean water, and containment free of accumulated waste, unsanitary conditions, and pests, with proper drainage. Where livestock is maintained under a rational grazing system, shelter is not required so long as animals are uninjured. Zoning Appendix B § 902(B) limits livestock-keeping to districts that allow it and to parcels meeting § 205 lot-size minimums.
Violations & Fines
Neglect is enforced under Chapter 4, Article II (large-animal management); zoning violations under Appendix B § 114. State cruelty penalties under § 47-1-40 also apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What care does Horry County require for livestock?
Can I keep a horse or cow on my residential lot?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Horry County
How Horry County compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Horry County to another location·View the South Carolina animal ordinances overview
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