It is strictly regulated.
Urban goat-keeping in Italy hinges on municipal ordinances and regional laws, with no nationwide prohibition but stringent local controls. The 2023 Codice delle Città Metropolitane empowers metropolitan cities to enforce zoning restrictions, while the 2026 Piano Nazionale di Sostenibilità delle Aree Urbane introduces stricter noise and hygiene protocols. Violations may trigger fines up to €5,000 under the Testo Unico dell’Ambiente (D.Lgs. 152/2006), with enforcement by local Polizia Municipale.
Key Regulations for Keeping Goats in the City in Italy
-
Zoning Restrictions: Most Italian cities classify goats as “livestock” under Regolamenti Comunali di Igiene Urbana, banning them in residential zones. Milan’s 2024 Regolamento per la Tutela degli Animali permits only dwarf breeds (e.g., Pygmy goats) in designated “agricultural islands” within urban parks, capped at two animals per household.
-
Noise and Odor Limits: Regional laws (e.g., Legge Regionale Lombardia 33/2022) enforce decibel caps (≤60 dB) and mandatory composting systems for manure. Non-compliance risks immediate confiscation under art. 544-ter del Codice Penale (animal neglect).
-
Permit Requirements: Cities like Rome require a Dichiarazione di Detenzione Animali (DDA) filed with the Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL), accompanied by a veterinary health certificate. Turin’s 2025 update mandates microchipping and annual inspections by the Corpo Forestale dello Stato.