Livestock: Berkeley vs Fremont
How do livestock rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Fremont, CA?
Berkeley and Fremont have similar restriction levels.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Berkeley prohibits large livestock such as cows, horses, pigs, and sheep on residential lots, allowing only small urban agriculture animals like hens, rabbits, and miniature goats case by case.
View full Berkeley rules →Fremont, CA
Alameda County
Livestock including goats, sheep, horses, and cattle are restricted to agricultural and rural residential zones in Fremont under FMC Chapter 18.
View full Fremont rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Fremont |
|---|---|---|
| Large livestock | Prohibited | - |
| Allowed small | Hens, rabbits | - |
| Miniature goats | Case by case | - |
| Commercial ops | Use Permit required | - |
| Slaughter | Prohibited residentially | - |
| Zones | - | Agricultural, Rural |
| Horse Minimum | - | 1 acre for 2 |
| Pigs | - | Generally prohibited |
| Stable Setback | - | 50 feet dwelling |
| Manure | - | RWQCB runoff rules |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Can I keep a pony on a large Berkeley Hills lot?
No. Equines are not allowed on residential parcels regardless of lot size within city limits.
Are potbelly pigs considered livestock?
Potbelly pigs are sometimes permitted as pets with a Zoning Administrator determination, but traditional swine are prohibited.
Fremont FAQ
Can I keep a horse in my Mission San Jose backyard?
Only if the parcel is zoned agricultural or rural residential with at least 1 acre. Standard residential lots do not qualify.
Are potbellied pigs allowed as pets?
Small potbellied pigs under 150 pounds may be kept as household pets with limits, but farm pigs require agricultural zoning.
Compare other topics
See how Berkeley and Fremont compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool