Keeping miniature pigs in Portland

Rules, permits and complaints

• Up to two (2) miniature pigs – commonly referred to as Miniature Vietnamese, Chinese or Asian Potbelly pigs (sus scrofa vittatus) – may be kept on any lot if the pig’s maximum height is no greater than 22 inches at the shoulder and it weighs no more than 150 pounds.
• 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. Absorbent ground cover is required for goats, rabbit and minipig outdoor space.

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.

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 facility is in good repair, adequately ventilated, capable of being maintained in a clean and sanitary condition, free of vermin, obnoxious smells, and accumulated waste.

Best practices for miniature pigs

• Pigs are social animals. It is recommended that owners keep other pets and provide frequent human interaction.
• Recommendation on the size and configuration of the pen is 10 square feet per pig.
• An outside run is recommended so that there is an opportunity for the pig to use its natural instincts to forage for roots and fungi.
• Recommendations for ground cover: Blankets are recommended for the inside of a pen and straw or hay are recommended for outside.
• Because pigs root, surface material such as rock or mulch won’t stay in place over the long term, although mulch in the outdoor space provides enrichment and may reduce mud

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).
• 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.