It is strictly regulated.
Urban goat-keeping in Thailand requires compliance with municipal zoning laws, livestock control ordinances, and public health regulations enforced by local administrative bodies such as the Department of Livestock Development (DLD) and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). While no nationwide ban exists, municipalities impose strict limits on herd size, sanitation standards, and proximity to residential zones. Recent 2026 amendments to the Public Health Act (Section 42) and Building Control Act further restrict livestock in urban areas to mitigate zoonotic risks and nuisance complaints.
Key Regulations for Keeping Goats in the City in Thailand
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Zoning Restrictions: Municipalities classify goat-keeping as a “livestock activity” under Town Planning Acts, prohibiting it in residential (R1-R3) and commercial zones unless licensed as an “agricultural enterprise” under Ministerial Regulation No. 5 (2023). Bangkok’s Building Control Act (2026) mandates a minimum 500m buffer from schools and hospitals.
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Herd Size and Sanitation: The DLD’s Urban Livestock Guidelines (2024) cap urban goat populations at 10 head per 1 rai (0.16 ha) and require daily waste disposal systems compliant with Environmental Quality Act (B.E. 2535, Section 78). Non-compliance triggers fines up to ฿50,000 under Public Health Act Section 47.
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Permitting and Inspections: Owners must secure a Livestock Keeping Permit from the local DLD office, renewable annually, and pass bi-annual inspections for hoof-and-mouth disease (FMD) surveillance. Unregistered goats face confiscation under Animal Epidemic Act (B.E. 2558, Section 18).