Keeping miniature goats and sheep in Portland

Information
Requirements, standards, setbacks and other considerations for keeping miniature goats and sheep in Portland.
On this page

Rules, permits and complaints

  • Up to three (3) miniature goats and/or miniature sheep may be kept on any lot. 
  • Up to five (5) miniature goats and/or miniature  sheep may be kept on lots 10,000 square feet and greater.
  • Nursing offspring that exceed the number allowed may be kept until weaned, but no longer than 12 weeks from birth. 
  • There is no maximum number of miniature goats and/or miniature sheep on lots 20,000 square feet or greater that allow agricultural uses through Title 33: Zoning, or that have an approved conditional use.
  • Permits are not required, but you must comply with all Title 13 code standards and best practices.

View the general rules, allowances, permits and complaint information about keeping bees and livestock in Portland.

Ground cover

Facility has a ground cover that is absorbent and is replaced as often as necessary to prevent odor and vector breeding.

Setbacks

  • Structures in a livestock facility must be located at least 3 feet from side and rear property lines and at least 10 feet from the front property line.
Diagram illustrating setback requirements

Well-being of the animal

The health or well-being of the animals will not be in any way endangered by the manner of keeping or confinement. This includes enough food, water, attend to special needs such as hoof care for goats and sheep, and skilled care for sick animals.

Condition of animal structures

The structures housing the animals are in good repair, adequately ventilated, capable of being maintained in a clean and sanitary condition, free of vermin, obnoxious smells, and accumulated waste.

  • Goats and sheep are social animals and owners are encouraged to have more than one.
  • Recommendations on the size and configuration of the stable and enclosed pen. Each goat must have at least 10 square feet of enclosed space. A three-sided structure facing northeast is recommended. The roof should be angled so that rain runs away from the door and adequate drainage and ventilation is provided.
  • Recommendations for ground cover include dry surfaces such as concrete or crushed stone that are easy to spray clean. Slated wood floors are can also work well.  

Guidelines on slaughtering

  • Meat is for personal consumption and may not be sold, unless raised as an agricultural use (on land zoned for agricultural uses).
  • Owners are required to take a class in humane and hygienic slaughter.
  • Slaughtering should be done out of the public review, view from neighboring properties, and the view of other animals.

Vector control

  • Feed and any supplement used to support animal health must be stored in a sealed container that is not penetrable by rodents or other animals.