Livestock: Bellevue vs Renton
How do livestock rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Renton, WA?
Bellevue and Renton 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 →Renton, WA
King County
Renton allows medium and large livestock only on larger lots under RMC 4-4-010, with per-acre density limits, barn setbacks, and bans on residential feedlots and slaughter.
View full Renton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellevue | Renton |
|---|---|---|
| Small Livestock Lot | 35,000+ sq ft typical | - |
| Large Livestock | R-1 zone only | - |
| Setback | 15 ft minimum | - |
| Code | LUC 20.20.130 | - |
| Medium Livestock Minimum Lot | - | About 1 acre |
| Large Livestock Minimum Lot | - | About 2 acres |
| Barn Setback | - | 50 ft from homes/water |
| Residential Slaughter | - | Prohibited |
| Code Reference | - | RMC 4-4-010 |
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.
Renton FAQ
Can I keep a horse on a half-acre lot in Renton?
Generally no. Large livestock including horses typically require at least two acres, with density limits expressed in animal units per acre.
Can I slaughter a chicken on my property?
No. Slaughter of any livestock on residential lots is prohibited. Animals must be transported to a licensed processor.
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