Pygmy or miniature goats and miniature sheep are considered small animals and are allowed as pets in some municipalities. So, whether you can have pet goats or sheep in Maine depends on your location and the size of your property. You should contact your zoning office or local animal control to determine whether farm animals are permitted in your neighborhood. Here are some Maine municipalities that allow sheep and goats.
South Portland, ME
In South Portland, Maine, goats and sheep are classified as "Small Farm Animals." A permit is required to keep small farm animals in the city. Residents with at least 1 acre of land are allowed to have two goats or sheep. Then, for every additional 20,000 square feet over one acre, one additional animal is allowed, up to a maximum of 4 animals. South Portland's animal ordinance requires all goats and sheep to be securely enclosed in a roaming or grazing area sufficient to keep them contained, and protected from predatory animals and the elements. Further, roaming and grazing areas should be located more than 15 feet from any property boundary.
Portland, ME
In Portland, ME, the raising of domesticated animals, including sheep and goats, for noncommercial purposes is subject to a specific requirement. According to Portland's Land Use Code, you may not keep sheep or goats on any lot less than three acres or closer than 100 feet to any street or lot line. Further, the keeping of domesticated animals should not create any odor, noise, health, or safety hazards, or other nuisance to neighboring properties.
Scarborough, ME
In Scarborough, ME, the keeping of farm animals, including goats and sheep, for personal use is permitted in 20 Zoning Districts. These include I, B1, B2, B3, BOR, HP, RF, RFM, R2, R3, R4, R4A, RH, RH2, RPO, TVC, TVC2, TVC3, VR2, and VR4. Under the Scarborough animal control ordinance, sheep and goats are classified as "Small Animals." To keep a small animal in any of those districts, you need to have a lot with an area of at least 40,000 square feet.
Brunswick, ME
There are restrictions on owning goats and sheep within the Town of Brunswick's growth zone areas. Plus a license is required. Sheep and goats are classified as "Domesticated Farm Animals" in the Town. For the keeping of domesticated farm animals within the Town's growth zone areas, a single-family residence with a minimum lot area of 2 acres is required.
A maximum of 2 goats or sheep is allowed per lot with a single-family dwelling. Goats and sheep should only be kept for personal use. The Town's animal ordinance requires all structures used to house goats or sheep to be located at least 35 feet from any property line and 45 feet from any neighboring residential dwelling unit.
Westbrook, ME
A permit is not required to keep goats and sheep in the City of Westbrook, Maine. However, there are certain conditions you must meet. According to Westbrook's municipal code, you should not knowingly allow your sheep or goat to go at large in any street or property of another. Additionally, you should keep your animals in such a manner as not to be offensive to your neighbors or the public.
Falmouth, ME
In Falmouth, ME, the keeping of goats or sheep for personal use or enjoyment is permitted in the following districts: F, RB, RD, HL, VMU, RA, and RC. A lot with a minimum area of 40,000 square feet is required for the keeping of sheep and goats in those districts. For more information please refer to Town of Falmouth Ordinance NO 49-2021.
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