Moreno Valley, CA Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

Moreno Valley's zoning code separates animal-keeping rights by zone. Standard residential zones (R-1 through R-20) allow household pets and a limited number of hens but prohibit larger livestock. Rural Residential (RR) zones and Agricultural (A-1, A-2) zones — which exist in pockets along Reche Canyon, the Lakeview area, and near the city's eastern edge — allow horses, ponies, goats, sheep, and small herds of cattle provided minimum lot size is met. Typical ratios require 20,000 square feet for the first horse and additional acreage for each additional animal, with similar proportional rules for other livestock. Stables, barns, corrals, and loafing sheds must be set back a minimum distance from property lines (often 40-70 feet depending on animal type and lot size) and from neighboring dwellings. Manure must be managed to prevent odor, fly breeding, and groundwater contamination — regular removal and composting are required. California Food and Agricultural Code sections 29001 and following govern livestock brand inspection, transportation, and stray livestock handling via the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Commercial livestock operations such as boarding stables or dairies require a conditional use permit and must meet additional health code and environmental standards.