Hobby Farmers

Spotted piglets in grass with a red bucket in the background

Do you own a small parcel of land and want to raise chickens, goats, or other livestock? Before purchasing animals, it's important to understand the regulations outlined in the Calvert County Zoning Ordinance, which may affect your property.

If you plan to keep livestock as pets or for personal use on a non-farm property, you must follow Article 19 – Accessory Structures and Uses, Section 19-1.P of the zoning ordinance. The regulations require that:

  • Your lot or parcel must be at least two acres in size.
  • Sanitation provisions must meet the requirements of the County Health Department.

For livestock enclosures on non-farm properties, such as shelters and pens (excluding poultry coops), the following conditions apply under Section 19-1.K:

  • Enclosures must meet the front setback requirements for primary structures.
  • Side and rear setbacks must be at least 25 feet.

If you plan to raise chickens or other poultry, the following conditions apply under Section 19-1.D:

  • Poultry may be kept on properties that are one acre or larger.
  • If your property is less than one acre, you must obtain a special exception from the Board of Appeals.
  • Coops must be at least 25 feet from any lot or parcel line and must meet the front setback requirements for a primary structure.
  • Sanitation provisions must comply with County Health Department requirements.

If you plan to purchase livestock for breeding or sale/profit, you are subject to Article 18 – Uses, Section 18-4.A, Animal Husbandry. This includes the care and breeding of livestock on a farm for commercial purposes. The following animals are covered under this regulation: horses, cattle, sheep, swine, goats, bison, llamas, alpacas, rabbits, and poultry.

The following conditions apply:

  • Your lot or parcel must be at least three acres.
  • The property must have an Agricultural Use Assessment from the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.

For zoning details on where Animal Husbandry is permitted or conditionally allowed, refer to:

For questions, contact the Department of Planning & Zoning at PZ@calvertcountymd.gov or 410-535-2348.

This information is a general interpretation of zoning regulations. The official Calvert County Zoning Ordinance should always be consulted for exact requirements and legal determinations.