Tampa, FL Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

Tampa City Code Chapter 27 Zoning and Land Development sets permitted uses by zoning district, and Chapter 8 Animals establishes welfare and sanitation standards. Livestock including cattle, horses, hogs, goats, sheep, donkeys, mules, and llamas are not permitted as principal or accessory uses in urban residential zones such as RS-50, RS-60, RS-75, and most multi-family districts. These animals are generally restricted to the Agricultural (AG), Agricultural-Residential (AR), and Rural Estate (RE) zoning districts that are found on the outskirts of the city and in unincorporated Hillsborough County. Minimum lot sizes for livestock typically start at 1 acre, with density limits such as one large animal (horse or cow) per acre and proportionately more small ruminants (goats or sheep) per acre. Stables, pens, and barns generally must be set back at least 50 feet from property lines and 100 feet from dwellings on adjacent properties. Hogs have additional setback and enclosure requirements due to odor and public health concerns. Commercial livestock operations and feedlots are further restricted and may require conditional use permits. Miniature breeds such as miniature goats and potbellied pigs are sometimes permitted as pets in residential zones if they meet specific size criteria and are kept in sanitary conditions, though Tampa generally follows the traditional livestock list. Chapter 8 requires adequate food, water, shelter, and veterinary care for all animals, and cruelty is prosecuted under Florida Statute 828.13. Manure management, fly control, and proper carcass disposal are regulated to prevent public health nuisances. Property owners considering livestock should verify zoning with the Tampa Planning and Development Department and review any applicable HOA or deed restrictions, which frequently prohibit farm animals entirely in suburban neighborhoods.