Merced County, CA Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

In Merced County's agricultural zones, agriculture and the keeping of livestock are permitted by right, and animal confinement facilities, stock yards, and feed lots are addressed by the Unified Development Ordinance with permit and setback requirements (e.g., Chapter 18.64 and the windshed provisions of Section 18.10.020(C)). In residential zones, Section 18.12.040(A)(1)(b) treats farm-animal keeping/raising as an interim agricultural use allowed only until 75 percent of abutting parcels develop: up to two large animals (horses, cows, ostriches, swine) OR up to five birds (other than household pets) are permitted per parcel, with Director approval required for more. This use is NOT allowed as an accessory residential use in the R-1 and R-1-5000 zones; it is allowed in the R-R Rural Residential zone. Animal pens enclosing animals may be on the property line but must be at least 50 feet from any off-site dwelling, and livestock may be pastured on irrigated pasture within those setbacks (Section 18.10.040(M)(4)). On the enforcement side, County Code Section 7.04.190(H) provides for a livestock-hauling fee when impounding livestock requires specialized equipment, and the Code allows a property owner to destroy a dog caught chasing livestock or poultry. Confirm zone-specific rules with Merced County Community and Economic Development.