Fresno County is one of California's top agricultural counties with over $7 billion in annual production. Livestock operations including cattle, dairy, poultry, and sheep are extensively permitted in agricultural zones under the county zoning ordinance and protected by the Fresno County Right to Farm Ordinance.
Fresno County's zoning ordinance permits livestock operations by right in AE (Exclusive Agricultural) and AL (Limited Agricultural) zones, which cover the vast majority of unincorporated county land. The Fresno County Right to Farm Ordinance protects established agricultural operations from nuisance complaints when they follow standard agricultural practices. Dairy operations must comply with the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board General Order for dairy operations and obtain coverage under the Waste Discharge Requirements. Large confined animal facilities require permits from the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) under Rule 4570 (Confined Animal Facilities). Poultry operations over certain thresholds require SJVAPCD permits. Small-scale livestock on rural residential parcels (R-1-AH zones) is generally permitted with animal density limits based on parcel size. Cattle feedlots and dairies are a significant part of the county economy. California Food and Agricultural Code 16301-16903 governs livestock disease control and brand inspection through the county.
Zoning violation for livestock in non-agricultural zone: administrative citation up to $1,000 per day. SJVAPCD Rule 4570 violation: up to $1,000/day per violation. Water quality violations: RWQCB enforcement. Right to Farm protections apply only to properly zoned and operated facilities.
See how Fresno County's livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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