Gaithersburg Animal Ordinances: Livestock Rules (2026)

Gaithersburg's residential zoning districts fall under the Montgomery County Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 59), which carefully distinguishes between household pets and livestock or farm animals. The standard residential zones that cover the vast majority of Gaithersburg (R-60, R-90, R-200, TMD, CRN, and various planned development zones) do not permit the keeping of horses, cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, llamas, alpacas, donkeys, or other traditional livestock. These animals are classified as agricultural uses and restricted to the Agricultural Reserve (AR) zone, which requires a minimum lot size of 25 acres and is located primarily in the northern and western portions of Montgomery County far from Gaithersburg's boundaries. The Rural Residential (R) zone also permits livestock with appropriate lot sizes and setbacks, but this zone does not exist within Gaithersburg city limits. Some exceptions have been explored through county zoning text amendments (ZTAs) for miniature goats or pygmy goats as accessory agricultural uses in larger-lot residential zones, but no amendment currently provides a broadly applicable exception for the residential zones found in Gaithersburg. Properties in planned unit developments with specific site plan conditions should check those conditions for any additional restrictions beyond the base zoning. Chickens are handled separately from general livestock in Montgomery County zoning. The county permits backyard hens (up to 6, no roosters) on residential lots meeting certain size and setback requirements, including a minimum distance of 30 feet from neighboring dwellings and 5 feet from lot lines. Rabbits kept as household pets in small numbers (typically 2 to 4) are generally allowed under the household pet provisions of the zoning code and are not classified as livestock. However, breeding rabbits commercially, maintaining a large colony, or keeping rabbits for meat production would likely be classified as an agricultural activity requiring appropriate zoning. All animals kept on residential property must comply with nuisance, odor, and sanitation standards. Manure storage, drainage, and pest control are particular concerns that code enforcement monitors. Montgomery County Animal Services responds to complaints about prohibited animals and can issue violation notices requiring removal within a specified timeframe. The county also participates in the Maryland Department of Agriculture animal health programs, which require certain livestock to be identified and tested for diseases like tuberculosis and brucellosis before sale or transport.