Livestock: Bellevue vs Kirkland
How do livestock rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Bellevue and Kirkland have similar restriction levels.
Bellevue, WA
King County
LUC 20.20.130 limits livestock. Small animals (goats, sheep) need large lots and 15-foot setbacks. Horses and cattle require R-1 zones unavailable on most Bellevue residential lots.
View full Bellevue rules →Kirkland, WA
King County
KZC 115.15 regulates livestock by lot size. Small livestock such as goats and sheep need lots of 35,000 sq ft or more. Horses are effectively restricted to large Bridle Trails-adjacent parcels.
View full Kirkland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellevue | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Small Livestock Lot | 35,000+ sq ft typical | 35k sq ft typical |
| Large Livestock | R-1 zone only | - |
| Setback | 15 ft minimum | - |
| Code | LUC 20.20.130 | KZC 115.15 and RCW 16.04 |
| Horses | - | Bridle Trails large lots |
| Commercial Operations | - | Prohibited |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
Can I keep a goat in my Bellevue backyard?
Only on larger R-1 lots meeting minimum lot size and setback rules under LUC 20.20.130. Most suburban Bellevue lots do not qualify.
Are horses allowed in Bellevue?
Generally only on very large R-1 zoned properties. Most of Bellevue does not permit horse keeping on typical residential lots.
Kirkland FAQ
Can I keep a goat in my Kirkland backyard?
Small livestock like goats generally require lots of 35,000 sq ft or more under KZC 115.15. Most suburban Kirkland lots do not qualify.
Are horses allowed in Kirkland?
Only on very large parcels, primarily near Bridle Trails State Park. Horses require substantial acreage and setback from streets and neighboring dwellings under KZC 115.15.
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