Livestock (cattle, horses, goats, sheep, pigs) is generally prohibited in Richmond's urban residential zones. Only limited agricultural zoning districts permit livestock, and minimum lot sizes and setbacks apply. Pigs are specifically prohibited as pets or livestock in residential zones. Chickens and bees are regulated separately and more permissively.
Richmond is an urbanized city with very limited agricultural zoning. Under the Richmond Zoning Ordinance (RMC Title 15), livestock including cattle, horses, mules, goats, sheep, and swine are prohibited in standard residential zones (R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4) and all multi-family zones. Limited keeping may be permitted only in specifically designated agricultural or large-lot residential zones, subject to minimum lot size (typically 1+ acre), setback requirements (50+ feet from residences, property lines, and water sources), and sanitation standards. Pigs, including pot-bellied pigs marketed as pets, are prohibited in residential zones under Richmond's animal control ordinance. Horses may be kept on large equestrian-zoned parcels only. Violations are enforced by Code Enforcement and Contra Costa County Animal Services; animals may be impounded. California Civil Code §3482.5 (Right to Farm Act) protects pre-existing agricultural uses but does not authorize new livestock keeping in residential zones. Small-scale urban farming (chickens, rabbits, bees) is addressed separately and generally allowed with conditions.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Contra Costa County handle livestock.
See how Richmond's livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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