Goats, pigs, sheep, cattle, and horses are not permitted in Sunnyvale residential zones. Only small animals like hens, rabbits, and pets are allowed, matching the urban character of Silicon Valley.
Sunnyvale is a fully built-out Silicon Valley city with no agricultural zoning, so traditional livestock are not permitted in residential or multi-family zones. Goats (including miniature pygmy goats), pigs, potbellied pigs in many cases, sheep, cattle, horses, donkeys, and large fowl like geese or peacocks are prohibited. Rabbits, hens (up to 6, no roosters), and small pet mammals are the only four-legged or avian livestock-like animals allowed at most residences. Temporary goat grazing services for brush clearing are permitted in open space, utility easements, and large commercial sites with a short-term use permit from the Planning Division. The Sunnyvale Serpentine Prairie and Baylands have used grazing goats seasonally. Existing legal nonconforming livestock on grandfathered parcels must be confirmed in writing by the city.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Sunnyvale, CA
Sunnyvale permits construction noise Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 6 PM and Saturday 8 AM to 5 PM. No construction on Sundays or major holidays without ...
Sunnyvale, CA
Sunnyvale was one of the earliest California cities to ban gas-powered leaf blowers, ahead of statewide AB 1346. Only electric or battery blowers are allowed...
Sunnyvale, CA
Aircraft noise from Moffett Federal Airfield, NASA Ames, and San Jose International is preempted by federal FAA rules. Sunnyvale cannot regulate overflight n...
Sunnyvale, CA
Street parking in Sunnyvale is governed by SMC Title 10 and California Vehicle Code. The 72-hour rule (CVC 22651(k)) applies, and posted permit zones restric...
Sunnyvale, CA
Sunnyvale driveway construction and use are governed by SMC Title 19 zoning and Title 16 encroachment rules. Blocking sidewalks or the public right-of-way is...
Sunnyvale, CA
RVs, trailers, and boats over 6 feet tall or 22 feet long are restricted on Sunnyvale streets under SMC Title 10. Short-term loading is allowed with limits; ...
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