Livestock including horses, cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs are generally prohibited in Antioch residential zones. They are permitted only on parcels zoned Agricultural (A) or with specific large-lot rural residential zoning, subject to minimum acreage and setback requirements.
Antioch is a suburban city where most residential zones do not permit livestock. The city's zoning code restricts large livestock — horses, cattle, sheep, goats, llamas, and pigs — to Agricultural (A) zones and certain rural residential designations with adequate acreage. Typical requirements include minimum 1-acre parcels for horses, with additional acreage per additional animal, and setback requirements of 50+ feet from property lines for stables, corrals, and manure storage. Pigs are particularly restricted due to odor concerns and are typically prohibited in all but agricultural zones. Miniature/potbelly pigs may qualify as pets under some city interpretations but require specific approval. California's Right to Farm Act (Civil Code §3482.5) protects existing agricultural operations from nuisance complaints from new residential development. Violations can result in abatement orders and animals being removed.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Contra Costa County handle livestock.
See how Antioch's livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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