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Washoe County, NV Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

Restraint rule
WCC 55.100; on-premises in congested areas
Livestock at large
Unlawful (WCC 55.540)
Where allowed
By Development Code zoning
Sanitation
Clean, odor-free (WCC 55.110)
Estrays
Governed by NRS Ch. 569

Summary

Poultry and livestock may be kept in unincorporated Washoe County where the Development Code zoning allows it, but in congested areas the owner must keep them fenced or penned so they never leave the property. Livestock running at large in a congested area is unlawful.

City-specific rules exist: Reno has its own chickens & livestock rules that differ from Washoe County's county-level regulations. If you live in Reno, check the city-specific page instead.

It is unlawful for livestock to be at large within any congested area. A violation of this section is committed by the owner or person having custody, control or possession of the livestock.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Washoe County Code 55.100 lists poultry, cows, goats, horses, sheep and swine among animals that owners in congested areas must keep restrained on-premises 'by a fence, cage, coop, chain, leash or other adequate means.' WCC 55.540 makes it unlawful for livestock to be at large in any congested area. Whether chickens or livestock may be kept at all, and how many, is set by the Washoe County Development Code zoning for the parcel (agricultural, large-lot and rural residential zones permit them; suburban lots may not). Sanitary-keeping rules (WCC 55.110) require clean, odor-free enclosures.

Violations & Fines

Livestock at large in a congested area may be impounded by an animal-control or peace officer, with notice to the Nevada Department of Agriculture; owner pays redemption. Keeping animals in unsanitary conditions is a separate code violation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep backyard chickens in Washoe County?
It depends on your zoning under the Washoe County Development Code. Agricultural and rural-residential parcels allow poultry; in congested areas they must be penned so they stay on your property.
What happens to loose livestock?
An animal-control or peace officer may impound livestock found at large in a congested area and notify the Nevada Department of Agriculture, per WCC 55.540 and 55.550.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Washoe County

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsDog Leash LawsSome RestrictionsCat RulesSome RestrictionsWildlife FeedingSome RestrictionsMandatory Spay/NeuterSignificant RestrictionsPet Store RulesSome RestrictionsExotic PetsHeavy RestrictionsBreed RestrictionsSome RestrictionsPet LimitsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsFire Regulations: Wildfire ZonesSome RestrictionsFire Regulations: FireworksHeavy Restrictions

All Washoe County rules

How Washoe County compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Washoe County to another location·View the Nevada animal ordinances overview

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