Merrifield Animal Ordinances: Livestock Rules (2026)

Fairfax County Zoning Ordinance restricts livestock to lots of 2 acres or larger, with additional per-animal acreage requirements that effectively limit livestock to larger estate lots, agricultural zones (R-A and R-E districts), and the few remaining farms in the county's western and southern portions. Horses typically require 2 acres for the first horse and 1 additional acre per additional horse, with stables and manure storage set back 100 feet from any dwelling and 50 feet from property lines. Cattle, sheep, and goats face similar acreage-based formulas. Pigs are subject to even more stringent setbacks (often 200+ feet from neighboring dwellings) due to odor concerns, and potbellied pigs kept as pets have been a recurring interpretation issue - currently classified as livestock regardless of pet intent unless specifically approved as an assistance animal. Most of Fairfax County's residentially zoned land (R-1 through R-20 districts) prohibits livestock entirely. Areas such as Clifton, Great Falls, and parts of Lorton/Fort Belvoir area have working farms, horse properties, and some livestock. Violations can result in abatement orders requiring removal of animals. Virginia Code §3.2-6500 et seq. governs livestock welfare independently.