Livestock: Fort Worth vs Haltom City
How do livestock rules compare between Fort Worth, TX and Haltom City, TX?
Fort Worth has fewer restrictions than Haltom City.
Fort Worth, TX
Tarrant County
Fort Worth, despite its Cowtown heritage, restricts livestock on urban lots. Horses, cattle, goats, and swine require agricultural zoning or minimum acreage; chickens and bees are allowed with limits.
View full Fort Worth rules →Haltom City, TX
Tarrant County
Haltom City prohibits cattle, horses, swine, goats, and sheep in standard residential zones under Chapter 14. Livestock is permitted only on agriculturally zoned land of minimum size, which is rare inside city limits.
View full Haltom City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fort Worth | Haltom City |
|---|---|---|
| Cattle/Horses | Ag zoning / ~1 acre each | - |
| Chickens | Allowed, no roosters | - |
| Swine | Prohibited in residential | Broadly prohibited in city |
| Bees | TX Ag Code Ch. 131 plus setbacks | - |
| Coop Setback | ~50 ft typical | - |
| Cattle and Horses | - | Residential zones prohibited |
| Goats and Sheep | - | Residential zones prohibited |
| Hens | - | Allowed with conditions |
| Agricultural Zones | - | Uncommon in Haltom City |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fort Worth FAQ
Can I keep backyard chickens in Fort Worth?
Yes, hens are allowed in residential zones with coop setbacks. Roosters are prohibited because of noise.
Can I have a horse in Fort Worth city limits?
Only on agriculturally zoned or large-lot property. Urban single-family lots do not meet the acreage requirement for horses.
Haltom City FAQ
Can I keep a horse in Haltom City?
Only on agriculturally zoned parcels meeting minimum acreage, which are uncommon inside Haltom City limits. Standard residential lots (SF-1, SF-2, SF-3) do not allow horses or other large livestock.
Are mini goats or pygmy pigs allowed as pets?
No. Chapter 14 generally treats miniature goats and pigs as livestock rather than household pets. Regardless of size, they are prohibited in standard residential zones and allowed only on agriculturally zoned land.
Where can I check if my lot allows livestock?
Call Haltom City Planning at (817) 222-7700 to verify the zoning classification of your parcel and the specific animals permitted. Established non-conforming uses may have grandfathered rights in limited cases.
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