Jacksonville Ch. 656 restricts livestock to AGR zoning districts. Chickens, goats, and horses are prohibited in standard residential zones without special exception.
Under Jacksonville's consolidated zoning code (Ch. 656), livestock and farm animals are permitted by right only in AGR (Agricultural) zoning districts. Standard residential zones (RR-Acre, RLD-60, RMD-A, etc.) do not allow chickens, roosters, goats, horses, pigs, or other livestock. Some RR-Acre (Rural Residential) lots may qualify for agricultural exemption if meeting minimum acreage. Western Duval County has substantial AGR-zoned land along the Nassau County border. The Planning and Development Department handles special exception requests for animals on non-conforming parcels. FL 823.14 (Right to Farm Act) protects bona fide agricultural operations from nuisance claims but does not override zoning. Hobby chickens in residential zones would require a zoning variance or code change.
Keeping livestock in non-agricultural zone: code violation, $250 fine per day after notice. Animals may be impounded by ACPS.
See how Duval County's livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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