Hemet, CA Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

Livestock rules in Hemet are set by the city's own zoning ordinance, not the adopted county animal-control code. The Sec. 90-77 Animal Regulations and Keeping Requirements Matrix lists allowable animals by zone. Sheep and/or goats (all types) are permitted in RA, A-1, and A-2 zones on a minimum one-acre lot, at 4 per acre up to a maximum of 15; no sheep, goat, pen, coop, stable, or barn may be kept within 50 feet of a residentially zoned property line. The matrix also allows a temporary exception: in all zones, with a Temporary Use Permit under Sec. 90-73, goats and/or sheep may be used to clear vacant sites of plant materials for no more than four weeks per six-month period. General Sec. 90-77 standards apply to all livestock: offspring are not counted toward the maximum until they reach six months (large animals) or 12 months (horses); animals may not be kept in any required front or side yard setback; conditions must meet all applicable local, state, and federal law; and animals may not create a public nuisance. Keeping allowed animals for commercial purposes in a residential zone requires a conditional use permit. Larger livestock such as horses and cattle are addressed in other rows of the Sec. 90-77 matrix and are generally limited to the RA and agricultural zones.