Livestock: Cambridge vs Somerville
How do livestock rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Somerville, MA?
Cambridge and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge prohibits traditional livestock (cattle, pigs, goats, sheep, horses) in all zoning districts; only urban hens and bees are allowed as agricultural animals.
View full Cambridge rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Traditional livestock such as cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and pigs are not permitted on residential lots in Somerville, which has no agricultural zoning districts.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Cattle/Pigs/Goats | Prohibited | - |
| Horses | Prohibited | - |
| Allowed Ag Animals | Hens + bees only | - |
| Slaughter | Prohibited citywide | - |
| Right to Farm | Does not override zoning | MGL c.111 s.125A |
| Cattle, horses, pigs | - | Not permitted |
| Goats and sheep | - | Not permitted |
| Allowed urban ag | - | Hens, bees by permit |
| Daily fine | - | From 100 dollars |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Can I keep a mini-pig as a pet in Cambridge?
No. Mini-pigs and pot-bellied pigs are classified as livestock under Cambridge code and are prohibited.
Can I keep dairy goats in Cambridge for personal use?
No. All goat species are prohibited regardless of size or purpose.
Somerville FAQ
Can I keep a mini pig as a pet?
No. Mini and potbellied pigs are treated as livestock under Somerville zoning and are not allowed in residential districts.
Are miniature goats allowed?
No. All goat breeds, including Nigerian dwarf and pygmy, are prohibited on residential lots in Somerville.
Compare other topics
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