Charlotte, NC Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

Charlotte's UDO treats livestock as an agricultural use not compatible with standard residential neighborhoods. Cattle, horses, goats, sheep, pigs, and similar farm animals are: - Prohibited in all N1-B through N2-C residential districts - Permitted in N1-A (large-lot residential, 1-acre minimum) with density limits (typically 1 horse per acre, minimum 2-acre parcel for horses) - Permitted in rural zoning areas outside the Charlotte city limits (governed by Mecklenburg County zoning where applicable)

Chickens: Backyard chickens are broadly allowed across Charlotte residential zones with these limits: - Maximum 12 hens on typical residential lots (varies by lot size) - Roosters prohibited in most residential districts due to noise - Coop setbacks: minimum 10 feet from property lines, 25 feet from dwellings on adjacent lots - Coops must be enclosed, predator-proof, and kept sanitary

Beekeeping: Permitted citywide under UDO with setbacks and colony limits. Generally 2-6 hives depending on lot size; hives must be set back 10 feet from property lines with a flyway barrier or elevated stand directing bee travel above 6 feet.

Miniature/potbellied pigs: Not generally allowed in residential districts as they are classified as livestock regardless of size.

Rabbits: Treated as pets and allowed in reasonable numbers (typically up to 4-6 in residential areas).

Enforcement: Mecklenburg County Animal Care & Control and Charlotte Code Enforcement jointly handle livestock violations. Penalties start with notice-and-cure periods and escalate to daily civil fines. Chronic violators may be ordered to remove animals.

HOA restrictions: Almost all Charlotte HOAs prohibit livestock and many prohibit chickens regardless of city rules. Check covenants before acquiring animals.