Lake Forest, CA Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

In Chapter 10.12, 'animal' as used in sections 10.12.080 through 10.12.120 'shall not include a cat or dog but shall include livestock,' so horses, cattle, goats, sheep, pigs and similar animals fall under these provisions. Two core requirements apply. First, control: every owner, keeper, custodian or harborer of livestock must erect and maintain a fence 'sufficiently good, strong and substantial as to prevent the ingress and egress of livestock' so animals do not stray onto neighboring property or roadways. Second, setback: pens, cages, corrals, stables and other structures used to keep animals overnight (other than within the residence) must be located at least 50 feet from any adjoining existing residential structure, or, where none exists, 50 feet from where a residence could legally be located. Beyond these health-and-safety standards, the threshold question of whether livestock may be kept at all is set by the City's zoning code (Title 9). Lake Forest is a master-planned, largely built-out community, so most residential lots are too small to satisfy the 50-foot enclosure separation and are not zoned for livestock. Owners must also avoid creating odor, noise or sanitation nuisances. Anyone wishing to keep livestock should verify parcel zoning with the Community Development Department before acquiring animals.