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πŸ” Animal Ordinances/Livestock

Livestock: Berkeley vs Hayward

How do livestock rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Hayward, CA?

Berkeley and Hayward have similar restriction levels.

Berkeley, CA

Alameda County

Heavy Restrictions

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 β†’

Hayward, CA

Alameda County

Heavy Restrictions

Livestock are prohibited in standard Hayward residential zones. Legacy large-lot and Agricultural (A) parcels in the foothills may keep limited livestock with setback and sanitation rules.

View full Hayward rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactBerkeleyHayward
Large livestockProhibited-
Allowed smallHens, rabbits-
Miniature goatsCase by case-
Commercial opsUse Permit required-
SlaughterProhibited residentially-
Residential Zones-Prohibited
A Zoning-Permitted with conditions
Horse Lot Size-20,000+ sq ft typical
Stable Setback-40 to 75 ft from dwellings
Pot-Belly Pigs-Generally prohibited

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.

Hayward FAQ

Can I keep a miniature horse or pony?

No, in residential zones; all equines require agricultural or legacy large-lot zoning regardless of size.

Are pot-bellied pigs allowed as pets?

Hayward does not specifically exempt pot-bellied pigs; they are treated as livestock and generally prohibited in residential zones.

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