Livestock such as horses, cattle, goats, and pigs are prohibited in North Richland Hills residential districts. Agricultural zones of one acre or more may keep limited livestock with setbacks.
North Richland Hills Code of Ordinances Chapter 14 and the Zoning Ordinance restrict livestock to Agricultural (AG) zoned parcels of at least one acre. Most of the city is built out at suburban densities, with the Smithfield area, Home Town, and Iron Horse neighborhoods all in R-1 through R-3 districts where horses, cattle, pigs, goats, and sheep are banned. On AG parcels, livestock structures must be set back at least 100 feet from the nearest residence, and stocking density is limited to prevent odor and drainage nuisances. Texas Agriculture Code Chapter 161 governs livestock health and brand registration through the Texas Animal Health Commission. Animals on county roads must comply with TX Agriculture Code 143 stock laws. Legal nonconforming uses that predate incorporation may continue but cannot expand. Pet pigs (pot-bellied) remain prohibited regardless of weight in NRH. Call NRH Planning and Zoning at (817) 427-6300 to confirm your zoning.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Tarrant County handle livestock.
See how North Richland Hills's livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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