Santa Clara, CA Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

Santa Clara City Code Chapter 6.10 and the citys zoning ordinance restrict livestock keeping in most residential areas. Cattle, horses, sheep, pigs, goats, and llamas are generally not permitted in single-family and multi-family residential zones. Agricultural zones and rural residential zones with minimum lot sizes (typically 1 acre or more) may permit livestock with appropriate setbacks from dwellings (typically 40-50 feet) and limits on density (often 1 animal per half-acre). Pot-bellied pigs and miniature or pygmy goats (under 100 pounds) may qualify as pets in some residential districts with specific permits, provided they meet noise, odor, and sanitation standards. Pasture-based livestock operations at the edge of Santa Clara in transitional zones toward the Santa Cruz Mountains may continue as legal nonconforming uses if established before zoning changes. All livestock keepers must comply with California Department of Food and Agriculture disease control requirements and Santa Clara County Vector Control standards. Animal slaughter on residential property is prohibited. Manure storage has specific distance and containment requirements to prevent runoff into storm drains.