Livestock: Marana vs Tucson
How do livestock rules compare between Marana, AZ and Tucson, AZ?
Marana and Tucson have similar restriction levels.
Marana, AZ
Pima County
Marana allows livestock on agriculturally zoned parcels and on residential lots meeting minimum acreage thresholds under the town Land Development Code. The town retains strong agricultural heritage with cotton farms and cattle ranching operations in the Santa Cruz River valley.
View full Marana rules →Tucson, AZ
Pima County
Tucson zoning allows limited livestock in suburban ranch zones SR and specified residential zones with minimum lot sizes. Horses require at least 36,000 square feet in Tucson zones that permit them, with one horse per 36,000 square feet of useable pasture. Cattle, swine, and sheep are generally limited to unincorporated Pima County.
View full Tucson rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Marana | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| AG Zone | Livestock permitted without density limits | - |
| Residential Zones | Minimum lot size required (typically 1+ acre) | - |
| State Law | ARS 3-1451 livestock at large | - |
| Nuisance Code | Chapter 6-1 sanitary enclosure standards | - |
| Horses | - | SR zone, 36,000 sq ft minimum per animal |
| Cattle and Swine | - | Unincorporated county only |
| Standard Zones | - | Livestock prohibited |
| Dwarf Goats and Rabbits | - | Allowed via urban ag |
| Nuisance Authority | - | Pima Health |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Marana FAQ
Can I keep horses on my Marana property?
Yes, if your parcel is zoned Agricultural or is a residential lot meeting the minimum acreage threshold in the Land Development Code, typically one acre or larger. Check Table 22.120 for your specific zoning district.
Are chickens considered livestock in Marana?
Marana addresses poultry under the same livestock provisions. On qualifying parcels, chickens are allowed subject to nuisance standards in Chapter 6-1 regarding sanitation and odor.
What happens if my livestock gets loose?
Under ARS 3-1451, allowing livestock to roam on public roads is a petty offense. Owners are liable for property damage and may face civil penalties from the town.
Tucson FAQ
Can I keep a horse on my Tucson property?
Only in the SR suburban ranch zone with at least 36,000 square feet per horse. Standard residential zones do not allow horses or other traditional livestock inside city limits.
Can I raise a pig as a 4-H project in Tucson?
Generally no inside Tucson city limits. Pigs and other large livestock are restricted to unincorporated Pima County or SR zones. Check with PDSD zoning for temporary youth agriculture exemptions.
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