Livestock including cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and swine are generally prohibited in Concord's residential zoning districts. Livestock are allowed only in limited agricultural or large-lot residential zones with minimum lot size and setback requirements. Swine are prohibited citywide outside of approved agricultural uses.
Concord's zoning code (Municipal Code Title 18, Development Code) restricts livestock keeping to specific zoning districts and lot sizes. In standard residential zones (R-6, R-10, R-20), livestock are not permitted; only domestic pets and a limited number of chickens (under the backyard chicken allowance) are allowed. Livestock such as horses, cows, goats, and sheep are generally limited to larger residential-agricultural or rural estate zones with minimum parcels of one acre or greater, and stable/barn setbacks of at least 50 feet from property lines and 100 feet from dwellings on adjacent parcels. Swine are specifically prohibited citywide except in agricultural zones. Owners must comply with manure management and nuisance standards under Chapter 6 (Animals) and Chapter 82 (Offenses). California Civil Code §3482.5 (Right to Farm Act) protects pre-existing agricultural operations from nuisance suits, but new livestock uses must still comply with current zoning. Contra Costa County Animal Services enforces animal welfare and cruelty provisions.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Contra Costa County handle livestock.
See how Concord's livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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