Hanford, CA Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

Livestock is central to Kings County's economy — dairies, cattle, sheep, goats, swine and poultry are common — and the County Code (Chapter 4, Animals and Fowl) addresses livestock alongside dogs, cats and fowl. The Code defines 'livestock' broadly to include horses, ponies, mules, burros, jacks or jennies, cows, bulls, calves, heifers, sheep, goats, swine, hogs, pigs and all other domestic or domesticated animals other than household pets. It is unlawful for any person owning or having possession of any animal to permit it to be at large without reasonable control, or to be pastured or kept on any street or other public place or on private property against the occupant's wishes (Sec. 4-67), and the Code separately addresses livestock running at large (Sec. 4-68). Whether — and how many — livestock animals you may keep depends primarily on the parcel's zoning: agricultural zones permit substantial livestock operations, while residential parcels allow far less or none. Kings County Animal Services advises that residential-area residents may keep 'some livestock,' but numbers and types are governed by the zoning ordinance and the Code's animal provisions. Owners must keep animals confined, provide humane care, and prevent stray livestock from entering roadways or neighboring land. Confirm specific allowances with Kings County Community Development and review Chapter 4 with Animal Services.