Hold Your Horses (or Goats): The Unofficial San Antonio Guide to Getting Your Bleating Buddy
So, you’ve been scrolling through TikTok and decided that your life is just not complete without a fluffy, mischievous, four-legged alarm clock that eats your prize-winning rose bushes. Yep, you want a goat. Specifically, you want to live the goat life right here in the Alamo City, San Antonio, Texas. Well, hold up, partner. It ain't as simple as driving to the feed store and tossing a goat in the back of your pickup. This is the city, not a wide-open ranch, and San Antonio has rules, y'all.
The big question is: Can you own a goat in San Antonio? The short answer, which is totally un-American in its brevity, is: Yes, but you gotta play by the rules. The much longer, highly informative, and slightly ridiculous answer is below. Grab a Big Gulp and settle in, because we're about to dive into the municipal code deep end.
Step 1: Check Your Vibe (and Your Zoning)
Before you even think about naming your future goat "Timmy" or "Taco," you need to know what's up with your property. San Antonio’s Animal Care Services (ACS) is serious about livestock, and yes, they consider goats livestock. You're not just getting a big, weird dog.
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| Can You Own A Goat In San Antonio |
1.1. The Magic Number: The "Five Alive" Rule
This is the central, non-negotiable piece of the puzzle. According to the San Antonio Municipal Code, the total number of domestic fowl (chickens, ducks, etc.) and livestock allowed at a residence is five (5).
“Wait, five total? That’s it? My sister has six dogs!”
Relax, buttercup. Dogs and cats have their own separate limits (eight cats or five dogs). The "Five Alive" rule is for the other critters. And here's the kicker for goat enthusiasts:
Up to three (3) domestic fowl (no more than one rooster, thank goodness—your neighbors already hate your early morning lawnmower).
Up to two (2) animals from the livestock classes: Equines (horses), Bovines (cows), Sheep, Goats, or Llamas.
Translation: You are typically allowed to have a maximum of two goats. That's your starting line. If you've got one goat, you can have a sheep, or maybe two little llamas that judge all your life choices. But for goats alone, two is generally the max without a special permit.
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
1.2. The Zoning Zoom-In
Even with the two-goat limit, you still have to make sure your property is zoned for livestock. Most standard residential areas (think tiny yards and zero lot lines) are going to make this a no-go. ACS is going to need documentation, and you'll likely need to connect with the Housing and Neighborhood Services Department. If you live in a dense, bustling neighborhood, you might be out of luck, unless you’ve got a massive piece of land tucked away. If your backyard looks like a postage stamp, you might want to pivot to a pet bunny.
Step 2: Permit Panic (Just Kidding, It’s Easy!)
So, you've checked your zoning, you have the space, and you’re pumped to get those two glorious goats. Hold onto your cowboy hat! In San Antonio, you need a Livestock Permit.
2.1. Why the Paperwork?
The city doesn't just hand out livestock willy-nilly. This permit ensures you know the rules, have proper facilities, and aren't running a petting zoo that spills into the street. It’s all about public health, animal welfare, and making sure your goat doesn't become "Ambitious," the famous San Antonio goat that went viral after being found roaming a yard (true story—look it up!).
2.2. The Permit-Getting Process (The Nitty-Gritty)
Tip: Check back if you skimmed too fast.
You’ll need to apply through Animal Care Services. This is where things get serious, like ordering a super-spicy taco.
Application Submission: You gotta fill out the form, which, let's be real, is never fun.
Documentation: You’ll need documentation from Housing and Neighborhood Services confirming your property is properly zoned for livestock. This is key.
Site Plan: Get ready to draw! You'll need a site plan showing the location of the animal housing and how close it is to your neighbor's property lines and structures. This is where they check that your goat’s crib is far enough away from your neighbor's barbecue area.
Waste Management: Seriously. Goats make… stuff. You’ll have to describe your waste management plan. No one wants a messy situation.
The Inspection: An ACS officer will likely come out for an inspection. They’re checking that you’re keeping up a Standard of Care and that your fencing is secure. They want to make sure your goats are cozy, happy, and aren't planning a great escape. A good enclosure prevents your goats from becoming a local news sensation.
Once approved, you get your permit, pay the fees (which can change, so always call ACS for the current rate), and voilà, you're an official San Antonio goat owner.
Step 3: Living the 'Goat Life' Without Getting a Citation
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This is the fun part, but it's also where you can mess up and get a nasty citation. Being a responsible San Antonio livestock owner means following the law, plain and simple.
3.1. Containment is King
Goats are escape artists. They're like little, furry Houdinis. The law states that all livestock and fowl must be restrained at all times. This means a fence that is sufficient to contain the animal and prevent them from climbing, digging, jumping, or otherwise escaping. If your goat is spotted doing the "run at large" dance, you are getting a ticket.
3.2. Standard of Care (Be a Good Pal)
The city has ordinances on the Standard of Care. This means you must provide:
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
Adequate shelter (protection from the Texas heat and the occasional cold snap).
Plenty of water (always clean and accessible).
Sufficient and wholesome food (no, your neighbor’s prize-winning roses don't count as wholesome food for your goat!).
Necessary veterinary care.
Basically, treat your goat like a family member, not a lawn ornament. Cruelty and neglect will get you investigated, and that's not a good time.
3.3. Keeping the Peace (Noise Control)
Goats are vocal. They bleat. If your goat is making frequent or long-continued noise that is annoying or distressing to your neighbors, you could be cited for an animal nuisance. Keep your goat happy and calm, and maybe don't get a particularly loud breed. No one wants the whole block calling 311 on your pet.
FAQ Questions and Answers
How to Get an Excess Animal Permit in San Antonio?
If you want more than the maximum of two livestock animals (like three goats—you're a rebel!), you must apply for an Excess Animal Permit from Animal Care Services. This is an entirely separate permit that has additional requirements, often including an annual renewal and a $25 fee (this fee is subject to change, so verify before you pay). You must still meet all zoning and standard of care requirements.
How Many Goats Can I Legally Own in a Residential Area of San Antonio?
Tip: Reread key phrases to strengthen memory.
Under the standard city ordinance, you are generally allowed a maximum of two animals from the livestock class (which includes goats) at a residence without applying for an Excess Animal Permit. The total limit for domestic fowl and livestock combined is five.
What are the Housing Requirements for a Goat in San Antonio?
The housing must be a secure enclosure that prevents your goat from escaping by climbing, digging, or jumping. It must be locked and secured. A site plan is required when applying for the Livestock Permit to show the location of the housing and its proximity to property boundaries and structures, ensuring it meets the city's standards for health and nuisance control.
How Much Does a Livestock Permit for a Goat Cost in San Antonio?
The filing fee for a Livestock Permit is listed as $150.00 (as of current available documents, but you should always contact San Antonio Animal Care Services directly to confirm the most current fee schedule, as prices change). There may also be an additional $25 fee for an Excess Animal Permit if you exceed the limit.
Where Do I Apply for a Goat Permit in San Antonio?
You apply for the necessary Livestock Permit at the San Antonio Animal Care Services Department. It’s highly recommended to call or check the official ACS website first to gather all the required forms and ensure you have all the zoning and site plan documentation before heading out.
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