Yes, keeping goats in Maine cities is generally permitted under state law, but municipal ordinances often impose stricter limits. Maine Revised Statutes Title 7 § 151 exempts livestock from state preemption, allowing cities to regulate or ban urban goat-keeping. Portland’s 2024 zoning amendments, for instance, cap backyard goat herds at two does without a special permit, while Bangor’s 2025 ordinance requires a 200-foot setback from neighboring properties. Violations may trigger fines up to $500 per day under local nuisance codes.
Key Regulations for Keeping Goats in the City in Maine
- Zoning Restrictions: Most municipalities cap goat numbers (e.g., 2–4 animals) and prohibit roosters or slaughtering on-site. Portland’s code classifies goats as “small livestock,” subject to lot size minimums (0.5 acres for >2 goats).
- Permitting Requirements: Cities like Augusta mandate annual permits ($25–$75) for goat ownership, with inspections for fencing (minimum 5-foot height) and waste management compliance under Maine Department of Environmental Protection guidelines.
- Nuisance Provisions: Noise, odor, or escape violations fall under municipal ordinances (e.g., Lewiston’s 2026 update imposes mandatory tethering during grazing hours to mitigate complaints).