Livestock such as cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and pigs are restricted to agricultural zones in Shelby County outside Memphis city limits or on permitted large-lot parcels. Standard Memphis residential zones do not allow livestock other than limited backyard hens.
Memphis Unified Development Code limits livestock to agricultural (AG) zones or to specific-use parcels with acreage and setback compliance. Standard R-1 through R-MH residential zones prohibit horses, cattle, pigs, goats, sheep, and other hoofed animals. Rural eastern and northern Shelby County outside Memphis has AG-zoned land where traditional farming continues. Within city limits, only limited backyard poultry (hens) and standard household pets are permitted. Setback rules for agricultural operations require 50 to 100 feet between livestock enclosures and neighboring dwellings depending on species. Tennessee Right to Farm Act (TCA §43-26) protects preexisting agricultural operations from nuisance claims when residential development encroaches, but applies only to lawfully zoned operations. Memphis Animal Services handles escaped livestock and urban complaints; Shelby County Sheriff handles rural enforcement. Miniature breeds (miniature horses, miniature goats) are still classified as livestock and face the same zoning restrictions.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Memphis code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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