Portland vs Seattle
How do exotic pets rules compare between Portland, OR and Seattle, WA?
Portland and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Portland, OR
Multnomah County
Portland City Code Title 13 prohibits keeping most exotic animals. Backyard livestock (chickens, rabbits, miniature goats) are allowed with conditions. Roosters, geese, standard pigs, and most large livestock are prohibited. Wild/exotic animals require state ODFW permits.
View full Portland rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle Municipal Code Title 9 and Washington State law (RCW 16.30) restrict exotic animals. Farm animals (cows, horses, full-size goats, swine) are only permitted on lots over 20,000 sq ft. Miniature goats and small potbelly pigs (1 max) are allowed with restrictions on smaller lots.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Portland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed Livestock | Chickens, ducks, rabbits, miniature goats/sheep, pot-bellied pigs | - |
| Prohibited | Roosters, geese, standard pigs, most large livestock | - |
| Exotic/Wild Animals | ODFW permit required; most prohibited without state license | - |
| Code | PCC Title 13 (amended 2020, Ord. 190086) | SMC Title 9 / RCW 16.30 |
| Enforcement | Multnomah County Animal Services: 503-988-7387 | - |
| Farm Animals | - | Lots > 20,000 sq ft only; no swine except mini potbelly |
| Mini Goats/Pigs | - | Allowed with restrictions; counts toward small animal limit |
| Exotic Wildlife | - | RCW 16.30 prohibits dangerous wild animals |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Portland FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Portland?
Portland City Code Title 13 prohibits keeping most exotic animals. Backyard livestock (chickens, rabbits, miniature goats) are allowed with conditions. Roosters, geese, standard pigs, and most large livestock are prohibited. Wild/exotic animals require state ODFW permits.
What exotic animals are prohibited in Portland?
Allowed Livestock: Chickens, ducks, rabbits, miniature goats/sheep, pot-bellied pigs. Prohibited: Roosters, geese, standard pigs, most large livestock. Exotic/Wild Animals: ODFW permit required; most prohibited without state license. Code: PCC Title 13 (amended 2020, Ord. 190086).
Seattle FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Seattle?
Seattle Municipal Code Title 9 and Washington State law (RCW 16.30) restrict exotic animals. Farm animals (cows, horses, full-size goats, swine) are only permitted on lots over 20,000 sq ft. Miniature goats and small potbelly pigs (1 max) are allowed with restrictions on smaller lots.
What exotic animals are prohibited in Seattle?
Code: SMC Title 9 / RCW 16.30. Farm Animals: Lots > 20,000 sq ft only; no swine except mini potbelly. Mini Goats/Pigs: Allowed with restrictions; counts toward small animal limit. Exotic Wildlife: RCW 16.30 prohibits dangerous wild animals.
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