Livestock such as cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and pigs are generally prohibited in Walnut Creek's residential zones and are only permitted on large-acreage parcels zoned for agricultural or rural residential use, subject to setback requirements from dwellings and property lines.
Walnut Creek is a largely suburban community where the zoning code (Title 10) restricts livestock keeping to limited rural-residential and open-space-adjacent areas. In standard R-10, R-15, and R-20 single-family zones, the keeping of cattle, horses, goats, sheep, swine, llamas, or other large livestock is not permitted. Certain larger-lot properties in zones such as R-40 (one-acre minimum) and rural residential areas near Shell Ridge and Lime Ridge open space may keep horses and similar large animals, typically at one animal per half-acre to acre, subject to stable and corral setbacks of 40-50 feet from neighboring dwellings and 25 feet from property lines. Manure management must comply with Contra Costa County Environmental Health requirements and BAAQMD odor regulations; manure piles cannot be stored within 50 feet of any property line or water course. Swine (pigs) of any size are generally prohibited in residential areas, although miniature/pot-bellied pigs kept as household pets may be allowed at the discretion of Community Development. California's Right to Farm Act (Civil Code 3482.5) protects pre-existing agricultural operations but does not override Walnut Creek's zoning for new operations.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Contra Costa County handle livestock.
See how Walnut Creek's livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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