Walnut Creek, CA Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

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.