Denton prohibits livestock including cattle, horses, goats, and sheep in residential zones unless the lot meets minimum acreage for agricultural zoning. Denton Development Code Table 5.2-A governs permitted uses by zoning district. Up to 8 hens allowed per residential parcel under Section 6-26, but roosters are restricted.
The Denton Development Code Table 5.2-A controls where livestock may be kept based on zoning district. Large livestock including cattle, horses, mules, donkeys, goats, and sheep are prohibited in standard residential zoning districts (RS, RD, MF). Agricultural zoning (RD-5, Rural Residential, or properties with agricultural exemption) may permit livestock with adequate lot size, typically 1 acre or more per large animal. Miniature livestock such as miniature goats or miniature horses may be subject to the same restrictions as full-size livestock. Denton Section 6-26 allows up to 8 hens per residential parcel with coops setback at least 50 feet from any residence, business, school, hospital, or nursing home. Roosters are prohibited within 150 feet of those locations. All livestock must be contained and not permitted to run at large per Section 6-8. Livestock running at large on public roads is an estray matter handled by Denton County. Denton is surrounded by active ranching operations in unincorporated Denton County where livestock restrictions are minimal.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Denton County handle livestock.
See how Denton's livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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