San Bernardino County, CA Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

San Bernardino County Development Code allows a wide range of livestock in rural and agricultural zones that cover most of the unincorporated area, including the Big Bear Valley, Apple Valley fringe, Lucerne Valley, Phelan, Pinon Hills, Newberry Springs, Helendale, Wonder Valley, and Johnson Valley. Typical rules: (1) Horses, cattle, sheep, goats, llamas, and alpacas allowed in AG, RC (Resource Conservation), and RL zones with animal density typically calculated as 1 animal unit (AU) per 20,000 square feet (roughly half-acre) or more depending on species and zone; (2) swine allowed only in AG zones due to smell and sanitation concerns; (3) corrals, stalls, and barns typically setback 40-50 feet from property lines and 100 feet from dwellings on adjacent parcels; (4) manure management required to prevent flies, odors, and runoff under Regional Water Quality Control Board standards. Commercial feedlots, dairies, and large operations require Conditional Use Permits. The California Right to Farm Act (Civil Code 3482.5) protects agricultural operations in existence at least 3 years before a complainant moved in from nuisance lawsuits based on normal farm practices including odors, dust, flies, and noise. The San Bernardino County Fair, 4-H, and FFA have deep local roots, especially in Chino, Lucerne Valley, and Apple Valley areas.