Virginia Beach, VA Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

Livestock keeping in Virginia Beach is primarily confined to Agricultural zoning districts AG-1 (Agricultural) and AG-2 (Agricultural). These districts cover the rural southern portion of the city below the Green Line — approximately the Pungo, Blackwater, Creeds, and Back Bay areas. In AG-1 and AG-2, permitted livestock includes cattle, horses, goats, sheep, swine (with restrictions), and similar traditional farm animals. Standard residential zones (R-40 through R-2.5) do not permit livestock, though chickens are allowed separately (see chickens-livestock). Minimum lot size requirements vary by animal: horses typically require at least 1 acre for the first horse and 0.5-1 acre per additional horse; cattle similar; goats and sheep may have smaller minimums. Swine often require larger setbacks (100+ feet from property lines) due to odor concerns, and commercial swine operations may require conditional use permits. Stocking density limits prevent overgrazing and manure accumulation. Fencing must be adequate to contain livestock; under Virginia's 'fence-in' law, livestock owners are liable for damage caused by escaped animals. Manure management is subject to Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area (CBPA) regulations and state stormwater rules to prevent nutrient runoff into waterways — Virginia's 'Resource Management Plan' (RMP) program offers voluntary certification. VDACS regulates livestock health, disease control, and brand registration under Virginia Code Title 3.2. All livestock must receive adequate food, water, shelter, and veterinary care under VA Code §3.2-5506 (animal cruelty). Livestock slaughter for personal consumption is permitted on the owner's agricultural property but commercial slaughter requires state or USDA inspection. The Right to Farm Act (VA Code §3.2-301 et seq.) protects established agricultural operations from nuisance lawsuits when operations existed before surrounding land use changed. Moving livestock across the Green Line to residentially-zoned land is not permitted without zoning change. HOAs in agricultural subdivisions may further restrict livestock regardless of zoning. Report livestock welfare concerns to Animal Control at (757) 385-4444 or VDACS.