It is strictly regulated.
Keeping goats in New York City is prohibited under the New York City Health Code (Section 161.03), which classifies goats as livestock and bans their possession within city limits. The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene enforces this restriction to mitigate public health risks, including zoonotic disease transmission and sanitation concerns. While some upstate municipalities permit small-scale goat husbandry, NYC’s urban density precludes such exemptions. Recent 2026 draft amendments to the NYC Zoning Resolution (Section 12-10) further reinforce this prohibition by explicitly excluding livestock, including goats, from residential and mixed-use zones.
Key Regulations for Keeping Goats in the City in New York
- NYC Health Code §161.03: Explicitly prohibits livestock ownership, including goats, within city limits due to public health risks.
- NYC Zoning Resolution §12-10 (2026 draft): Confirms goats as prohibited in residential and mixed-use zones, aligning with urban density restrictions.
- NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH): Enforces compliance through inspections and penalties for violations, with no current pathways for legal permits.