Cattle, horses, mules, pigs, goats, sheep, and other large livestock are prohibited in New Orleans residential and most commercial zoning districts under City Code Chapter 18. Limited keeping is permitted only in specific rural and agricultural zones, which cover a small fraction of the city near the Lower Ninth Ward and eastern New Orleans. Louisiana state law on stray and dangerous livestock applies citywide.
New Orleans City Code Chapter 18 and the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance restrict keeping of livestock, defined as cattle, horses, mules, donkeys, pigs (including miniature and pot-bellied breeds), goats, sheep, and similar hoofed animals, to designated agricultural and rural districts. The vast majority of residential lots in Orleans Parish do not qualify. Even in permitted zones, livestock must be confined behind sturdy fencing, kept at minimum setbacks (typically 50 feet from any dwelling not owned by the keeper), and managed to prevent odor, runoff, fly infestation, and noise nuisances. Slaughter on residential lots is prohibited; processing must be done at licensed facilities. Mule-drawn carriages used by French Quarter tour companies are subject to specific City Code rules including weight limits, working hour limits, and welfare inspections by the Department of Health. Stray livestock found on city streets is impounded under Louisiana Revised Statutes 3:3001 et seq. (estray law) and the Louisiana SPCA assists with large animal seizures. Owners are strictly liable under Louisiana Civil Code article 2321 for damage caused by their domestic animals, including escaped livestock that damages a neighbor's garden or causes a vehicle accident.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact New Orleans code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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