Livestock: Arlington vs Fort Worth
How do livestock rules compare between Arlington, TX and Fort Worth, TX?
Fort Worth has fewer restrictions than Arlington.
Arlington, TX
Tarrant County
Arlington prohibits traditional livestock (cattle, horses, goats, sheep, swine) on residential lots smaller than 1 acre. Keeping livestock requires Agricultural (A) zoning or legally grandfathered pre-annexation agricultural use. Violations result in fines and impoundment by Arlington Animal Services.
View full Arlington rules →Fort Worth, TX
Tarrant County
Fort Worth, despite its Cowtown heritage, restricts livestock on urban lots. Horses, cattle, goats, and swine require agricultural zoning or minimum acreage; chickens and bees are allowed with limits.
View full Fort Worth rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Fort Worth |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Cattle/Horses | - | Ag zoning / ~1 acre each |
| Chickens | - | Allowed, no roosters |
| Swine | - | Prohibited in residential |
| Bees | - | TX Ag Code Ch. 131 plus setbacks |
| Coop Setback | - | ~50 ft typical |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
Fort Worth FAQ
Can I keep backyard chickens in Fort Worth?
Yes, hens are allowed in residential zones with coop setbacks. Roosters are prohibited because of noise.
Can I have a horse in Fort Worth city limits?
Only on agriculturally zoned or large-lot property. Urban single-family lots do not meet the acreage requirement for horses.
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