Bellevue, WA Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

Bellevue's Land Use Code 20.20.130 distinguishes household pets, small domestic animals, and large domestic animals. Household pets (dogs, cats, up to 6 fowl) are allowed in all residential zones without permit. Small domestic animals include goats, sheep, miniature pigs, rabbits in quantity, and more than 6 fowl. Keeping small domestic animals requires larger residential lots (typically 35,000 square feet or R-1 zoning), additional setbacks, and enclosures at least 15 feet from all property lines unless the entire lot is fenced. Large domestic animals (horses, cattle, large pigs, donkeys) are generally restricted to R-1 zones and require even larger lot sizes and acreage. Most of Bellevue is zoned R-5, R-7.5, R-10, R-15, or multifamily, none of which accommodate large livestock. Commercial livestock operations (dairy, cattle feedlot, poultry operation) are prohibited in the city. Washington state law RCW 16.04 covers livestock at large, with owners liable for damages if animals escape onto roadways or neighboring properties.