Livestock: Denton vs Little Elm
How do livestock rules compare between Denton, TX and Little Elm, TX?
Denton and Little Elm have similar restriction levels.
Denton, TX
Denton County
Denton prohibits livestock including cattle, horses, goats, and sheep in residential zones unless the lot meets minimum acreage for agricultural zoning. Denton Development Code Table 5.2-A governs permitted uses by zoning district. Up to 8 hens allowed per residential parcel under Section 6-26, but roosters are restricted.
View full Denton rules →Little Elm, TX
Denton County
Livestock prohibited on residential lots under Ch. 18 Animals and zoning ordinance. Only agricultural-zoned properties may keep farm animals. Backyard chickens generally not permitted.
View full Little Elm rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Denton | Little Elm |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Zones | Livestock prohibited (RS, RD, MF) | - |
| Agricultural Zones | Permitted with adequate lot size | Livestock permitted with conditions |
| Chickens | 8 hens allowed (Section 6-26) | - |
| Roosters | 150-ft setback from residences | - |
| Code | DDC Table 5.2-A / Ch. 6 | Ch. 18 Animals / Zoning Ordinance |
| Livestock in Residential | - | Prohibited |
| State Protection | - | TX Ag Code Ch. 251 (Right to Farm) |
| Fine | - | Up to $500/day, up to $2,000 repeat |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Denton FAQ
Can I keep goats on my residential lot in Denton?
Generally no. Standard residential zones (RS, RD, MF) prohibit livestock including goats. Only agricultural or rural residential zoning with adequate lot size permits large livestock.
How many chickens can I keep in Denton?
Up to 8 hens per residential parcel under Section 6-26. Coops must be at least 50 feet from any residence, business, school, or hospital. Roosters are restricted to 150 feet from those locations.
Little Elm FAQ
Can I keep backyard chickens in Little Elm?
Little Elm has not adopted a backyard poultry ordinance. Chickens are generally classified as poultry/livestock and prohibited in residential zones. Check with Code Enforcement for current interpretation.
What if my property used to be farmland?
If the property has been rezoned residential through subdivision platting, livestock restrictions apply regardless of prior agricultural use. Texas Right to Farm Act protection generally does not override municipal zoning within city limits.
Compare other topics
See how Denton and Little Elm 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