Livestock: Ontario vs San Bernardino
How do livestock rules compare between Ontario, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
San Bernardino has fewer restrictions than Ontario.
Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario restricts livestock to agricultural and equine zones in the Development Code. Most livestock activity is in Ontario Ranch (New Model Colony). Standard residential zones prohibit cattle, goats, sheep, and horses.
View full Ontario rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
Large livestock such as horses, goats, and cattle are allowed only in agricultural and rural-residential zones with minimum lot size and setback rules under Development Code Title 19.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ontario | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed Zones | Ag and equine overlay only | - |
| Legacy Area | Ontario Ranch New Model Colony | - |
| Residential | Cattle horses goats sheep prohibited | - |
| Swine | Conditional-use only | - |
| Slaughter | Residential slaughter prohibited | - |
| Code | - | Development Code Title 19 |
| Minimum Lot | - | Typically one acre |
| Setbacks | - | 35 to 50 feet from dwellings |
| Pigs | - | Generally limited to 4-H and FFA projects |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ontario FAQ
Can I keep a horse in my Ontario backyard?
Only on parcels in the equine overlay or agricultural zones, primarily legacy parcels in Ontario Ranch. Standard residential lots do not permit horses.
Is a potbelly pig considered livestock?
Potbelly pigs are regulated separately and are often treated as pets in limited numbers, but check with Ontario Planning before acquiring one because restrictions are stricter than dogs and cats.
San Bernardino FAQ
Can I have a horse in a standard San Bernardino yard?
Most residential lots are too small and in the wrong zone; horses typically require one acre plus and an AG or RE zone.
Are pot-bellied pigs allowed?
Generally no in standard residential zones; pigs are restricted to agricultural areas or temporary youth-project permits.
Compare other topics
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