Somerville, MA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Cattle, horses, pigs
- Not permitted
- Goats and sheep
- Not permitted
- Allowed urban ag
- Hens, bees by permit
- Right to Farm
- MGL c.111 s.125A
- Daily fine
- From 100 dollars
Summary
Traditional livestock such as cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and pigs are not permitted on residential lots in Somerville, which has no agricultural zoning districts.
No zoning ordinance or by-law shall prohibit, unreasonably regulate, or require a special permit for the use of land for the primary purpose of commercial agriculture, aquaculture, silviculture, horticulture, floriculture or viticulture, nor prohibit, unreasonably regulate or require a special permit for the use, expansion, reconstruction or construction of structures thereon for the primary purpose of commercial agriculture, aquaculture, silviculture, horticulture, floriculture or viticulture, including those facilities for the sale of produce, wine and dairy products. For the purposes of this section, the term ''agriculture'' shall be as defined in section 1A of chapter 128.
Full Breakdown
Somerville's zoning does not include agricultural districts, and the city's dense urban fabric means traditional livestock are not allowed on residential or mixed-use lots. Cattle, horses, sheep, goats (including miniature or pygmy breeds), and pigs (including potbellied or mini pigs when kept as pets in violation of zoning) are not permitted anywhere in the city as residential animals. The city's limited urban agriculture ordinance allows only backyard hens and bees under Board of Health permits, along with community gardens managed by Groundwork Somerville and similar groups. The Massachusetts Right to Farm Act (MGL Chapter 111 Section 125A) protects active commercial farms but does not create a right to start livestock operations in urban lots where zoning does not permit them. Violations result in orders to remove animals within a defined period and fines beginning at 100 dollars per animal per day of non-compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a mini pig as a pet?
Are miniature goats allowed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Somerville
How Somerville compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Somerville to another location·View the Massachusetts animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Chickens & Livestock in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle chickens & livestock.