Seattle, WA Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

King County Code 21A.30 (Agricultural Uses) establishes livestock density standards based on zoning. In Agricultural (A) zones, livestock are permitted by right without density caps, subject to setbacks. In Rural Area (RA-5, RA-10, RA-20) and Rural Residential, the standard is 1 large animal unit per 40,000 sq ft (approximately 1 acre) plus appropriate shelter and pasture. 4-H and FFA youth projects are allowed additional animals regardless of lot size. Setbacks: barns and animal confinement must be at least 50 feet from the property line and 100 feet from any dwelling on adjacent property. Manure storage requires setback from surface water and wells. Livestock adjacent to salmon-bearing streams (Snoqualmie, Green, Cedar, Sammamish, Tolt river systems) is subject to KCC 21A.24 critical areas protections including buffer setbacks. Fencing must keep livestock contained; escaped livestock can result in citations and owner liability under RCW 16.04. Farm operations certified under Farm Management Plans get Right-to-Farm protections under RCW 7.48.305.