Livestock (horses, cattle, goats, pigs, sheep) in Broward is limited to Agricultural (A-1, A-5) and Rural Estate (RE) zoning districts under Chapter 39. Lot size and setback requirements apply.
Chapter 39 (Unified Land Development Code) of the Broward County Code restricts livestock keeping to A-1 (General Agriculture), A-5 (Agricultural, 5-acre minimum), and Rural Estate (RE) zoning districts. Typical density requirements include 1 horse per acre, 2 goats or sheep per acre, and 1 cow per 2 acres. Setbacks for livestock enclosures from property lines range from 50 to 100 feet depending on zoning. Cities with rural pockets (Southwest Ranches, Davie, parts of Parkland) maintain their own equestrian-friendly zoning. Fencing must meet FL 588 (Livestock Fence Law) if livestock have access to public roads. Manure management must not create nuisance under Chapter 27 odor provisions or violate SFWMD stormwater standards. Brand registration is handled by FDACS per FL 534. Backyard pigs as pets are sometimes permitted as potbellied pigs under veterinary classification; verify with Broward County Planning. Horseback riding on county trails requires permit coordination with Broward County Parks. Commercial equestrian operations need both zoning compliance and business tax receipts.
Zoning violations: up to $250 first offense, $500 repeat. Special magistrate fines up to $500 per day. Livestock at large: impoundment and FL 588 civil liability for damage.
See how Broward County's livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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