Chapter 6.08
GOATS AND SHEEP
Sections:
6.08.030 Protected vegetation.
6.08.050 Notice and noise to adjacent properties.
6.08.060 Care of goats and sheep.
6.08.010 Targeted grazing.
The keeping of goats or sheep for the sole purpose of targeted grazing of vegetation is an expressly permitted accessory use to the primary use on a parcel of land in all zoning districts (including residential districts). The term “targeted grazing” as used in this section means the application of goats or sheep to accomplish a defined vegetation or landscape goal. Targeted grazing is allowed within city limits by a licensed “goat or sheep herder” business (herder) that complies with the regulations of this chapter. Target grazing is limited to the following durations:
A. The duration of targeted grazing treatment is limited to no more than 21 consecutive days on any single parcel of property measuring one-half acre or less in area. On properties greater than one-half acre in area, the duration of targeted grazing is limited to no more than 21 consecutive days in any one penned area of one-half acre or more in size. One-half acre pens must be used during targeting grazing on properties measuring more than one-half acre.
B. Goats or sheep may not return to a treated area for at least 30 days following a targeted grazing treatment.
C. No more than three targeted grazing treatments per calendar year may occur on any one property one-half acre or less in size or on any one penned area in the case of properties greater than one-half acre in size.
D. The keeping of goats or sheep permanently on a property is not allowed unless in an approved zone. (Ord. 1319 § 1, 2021).
6.08.020 Herder license.
Goat and sheep herders must obtain a business license under Chapter 5.06 SLMC. (Ord. 1319 § 1, 2021).
6.08.030 Protected vegetation.
It is the herder’s responsibility to make sure that goats and sheep do not eat protected vegetation and do not wander to adjacent properties. (Ord. 1319 § 1, 2021).
6.08.040 Secure pens.
Herders must keep goats and sheep secured or confined to avoid damage to property outside the targeted areas. Temporary electric fences used to pen grazing goats or sheep are allowed within the city as long as they meet all applicable safety standards as determined by the city. Warning signs notifying persons of a dangerous fence must be posted at 15-foot intervals along electric fences. (Ord. 1319 § 1, 2021).
6.08.050 Notice and noise to adjacent properties.
A. If the treatment site borders an adjacent residential property, neighboring landowners must be notified, in writing, at least seven days prior to the targeted grazing treatment start date. The notice may be provided by either by the herder or owner contracting with the herder.
B. Herders are responsible for keeping goats and sheep from making continuous loud noises in close proximity to neighboring homes. Continuous, loud noise from such animals is included with and identified as a nuisance in SLMC 8.21.030(I). Enforcement and penalties under Chapter 8.21 SLMC and/or this chapter may be applied. Penalties may be enforced against the property owner contracting with the herder in the event the herder fails to comply. (Ord. 1319 § 1, 2021).
6.08.060 Care of goats and sheep.
A. Herders are responsible for making sure goats or sheep used for targeted grazing are kept healthy and content. All goats and sheep shall arrive healthy and up to date on vaccinations and parasite control as deemed necessary by the city and/or herder’s veterinarian. Sick or lame animals shall be dealt with in a timely manner and affected animals removed if necessary. The goats and sheep shall not be:
1. Hungry or thirsty.
2. Injured or sick (including with any parasites).
3. In rutting season.
B. Herders are responsible for providing the following for goats and sheep:
1. Shelter.
a. Goats and sheep shall be kept dry and have temporary shelter provided for any season.
b. The shelter shall be cleaned regularly so not to be considered a nuisance under Chapter 8.21 SLMC.
2. Feed. Goats and sheep shall be provided a feed diet to supplement grazing.
3. Water.
a. Goats and sheep shall be provided with clean, fresh water.
b. A minimum six gallons of water per day per animal shall be made available.
4. Fencing.
a. Fences shall be at least four feet in height to prevent escape.
b. Gaps in fences must be small enough so that goats or sheep will not get their heads and limbs stuck or entangled.
c. Electric fences may be used, but must comply with SLMC 6.08.040.
C. Herders are prohibited from tethering or tying goats and sheep to a long leash, which may cause them to become a danger to themselves and place them at risk of becoming prey to predatory animals. (Ord. 1319 § 1, 2021).
6.08.070 Penalties.
Violations of this chapter are subject to the following fines and penalties:
A. First offense is a C-15 fine.
B. Second offense is a C-14 fine.
C. Third offense is a C-11 fine.
D. Further offense refer to SLMC 8.21.050 through 8.21.070. (Ord. 1319 § 1, 2021).