Livestock: Somerville vs Waltham
How do livestock rules compare between Somerville, MA and Waltham, MA?
Somerville and Waltham have similar restriction levels.
Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Traditional livestock such as cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and pigs are not permitted on residential lots in Somerville, which has no agricultural zoning districts.
View full Somerville rules →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham is a dense suburban city with very limited agricultural zoning, so traditional livestock like cattle, horses, and pigs are essentially prohibited.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Somerville | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Cattle, horses, pigs | Not permitted | - |
| Goats and sheep | Not permitted | - |
| Allowed urban ag | Hens, bees by permit | - |
| Right to Farm | MGL c.111 s.125A | MGL c.40A s.3 |
| Daily fine | From 100 dollars | - |
| Minimum Lot | - | 2+ acres agricultural |
| Horses | - | Agricultural zones only |
| Hens Exception | - | Most residential zones |
| Manure Rules | - | Health Department |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Somerville FAQ
Can I keep a mini pig as a pet?
No. Mini and potbellied pigs are treated as livestock under Somerville zoning and are not allowed in residential districts.
Are miniature goats allowed?
No. All goat breeds, including Nigerian dwarf and pygmy, are prohibited on residential lots in Somerville.
Waltham FAQ
Can I keep a pony in my backyard?
No, Waltham residential lots do not meet the acreage and zoning requirements.
What about pygmy goats?
Goats still require agricultural zoning and minimum acreage.
Compare other topics
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