Blaine, MN Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

Blaine treats traditional livestock as an agricultural use. Domestic farm animals - including cattle, horses, sheep, and goats - are only permitted in agricultural (AG) and farm-residential (FR) zoning districts. They are not allowed in standard residential zones such as R-1, R-1A, R-1B, or R-2. The principal exception for ordinary residential properties is backyard chickens: not more than six hens (and no roosters) may be kept as an accessory use in the RE, R-1, R-1AA, R-1A, and R-1B zones, subject to city registration, a coop site plan, and the city's size and setback standards. Beyond that limited chicken allowance, residents in typical neighborhoods cannot keep hooved livestock or larger farm animals. Anyone wanting to keep farm animals should first confirm whether their parcel carries AG or FR zoning, because the entire question turns on zoning classification. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture also maintains a statewide index of local livestock ordinances, and state animal-care and feedlot rules may apply to larger operations. Property owners should verify current zoning and the latest city code text with Blaine's Planning department before bringing any livestock onto a property.