Pet Restrictions: What Is Considered Livestock?

In North Carolina, a recent lawsuit between a homeowners association and owners of two pet goats was decided with a surprising outcome. The association claimed the goats were livestock, which is expressly prohibited in the Bylaws of the association. However, the owners argued that the 30-lb dwarf goats were bought as pets and are treated as such, and there are no restrictions on having pets. They further argued that they are not using them for commercial or production purposes, therefore, that they are pets. Making the situation even more complicated is that fact that the association is an equestrian community and horses are permitted on the premises. The owners kept their goats in the horse stables for several years, but neighbors began to lodge complaints about the foul smell. A judge recently ruled in favor of the owners, allowing the owners to return their evicted pet goats to the premises. The association filed an appeal, citing that allowing goats is going to pave the way for pet cows and other non-traditional pets.

More on Community Associations