Download the free 56 page AMPA Mini Pig Zoning Packet to help you change your city’s ordinances to allow pet pigs. AMPA Mini Pig Zoning Packet
Mini Pig Zoning Requirements: Pigs still fall into the legal description of livestock according to the USDA and the majority of city governments. It is imperative to check with city government regulations before bringing a pig into your home as a pet. Many cities do not allow pet pigs inside the city limits. Some cities do allow pigs with some restrictions, such as only one pig allowed per household, requirements of particular vaccinations, weight limitations. Contact your local city government offices or look on their websites for animal ordinances keeping in mind that a pet pig will most likely fall under their livestock regulations. Below are two links that may allow access to your city ordinances.
If your city is not zoned for a pig as a pet you may attempt to have that ordinance changed or updated. Some of the codes were written many years ago and can be updated. Contact your city council to determine the steps to have the code rewritten or updated prior to adding a pig to your family.
If you have successfully changed your city’s zoning ordinance regarding keeping pet mini pigs, please email us your story and packet to info@americanminipigassociation.com. If you live in an area that does not allow pigs as pets the material may assist you.
Success Stories:
Ann Varner changed the zoning ordinance in Kansas City, Missouri. View her Pet Pig Zoning Packet that was submitted to City Council.
Dawn Bleeker changed the city zoning in Newton, Iowa. Read her story here.
Legalize Mini Pigs
Step by Step Guide to Changing City Zoning Ordinances
- It’s important, whenever possible, to take the initiative to approach your city’s zoning council BEFORE you move in or bring a pet pig into the home. Once you have been found to be in violation of the law, it will be more difficult to convince the officials. That being said, it is never too late to take a stand for your pet. Be the voice.
- If you already own a pet pig, make sure s/he is spayed/neutered, current on regular veterinary care, and housed responsibly with proper shelter and a fenced in yard or leashed while outside.
- Read your city’s zoning ordinance carefully to understand exactly what is and isn’t allowed. Use this information to build your case to challenge the current ordinance.
- Gather as much support and supportive documents as possible (listed below).
- Contact your city. Tell them you would like to file an official request for an amendment in the zoning ordinance regarding mini pigs as pets. This part seems to vary from city to city. Some individuals have set this up through the City Secretary, the City Administrator, the City Manager, City Zoning and Planning Committee, or directly with City Council. Ask your point of contact to walk you through the steps required. They should schedule a meeting with City Council to review your proposal. Make sure are fully prepared before the set date!
- Once City Council reviews your proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance, they will either approve or deny the change. If it is approved, you have won! Please share your story to be featured on the American Mini Pig Association website. Email your story, a photo of your pig, and any documentation you used to amend your city’s zoning to info@americanminipigassociation.com. If the amendment is denied, ask for specific reasons why it was denied. Use this information to reassess your approach and strengthen your presentation.
Supporting Documents and Other Support
The following may be useful in your proposal to change a city’s zoning ordinance regarding keeping mini pigs as pets. Every proposal is different, every ordinance code is different, and every City Council is different. There is not a single approach that will work for all, and not every case will be won. The best you can do is put your heart into it and show them how much these special pets mean to you. Show them how your pig has changed your life and show them how responsible pet ownership will not burden or affect the neighborhood but will instead be an asset.
- Use this FREE 56 page packet courtesy of the American Mini Pig Association. AMPA Mini Pig Zoning Packet
- Print out The Facts of Mini Pigs As Pets courtesy of the American Mini Pig Association.
- Register your mini pig as a pet at the American Mini Pig Association. Present your registration certificate in your proposal.
- Gather letters of support from members of the community. A letter from your veterinarian will be very powerful, fellow pig parents, neighbors, professionals in the community, animal trainers, and anyone else you can think of. If you have visited hospitals, schools, libraries, nursing homes, or any other community event, ask for letters of recommendation from those individuals as well.
- Write a short letter explaining why owning a pet pig is important to you.
- If your pig is a registered Therapy Pet through a recognized organization such as your local Humane Society or the nationwide organization Pet Partners, include the paperwork and ask for a letter of recommendation. The American Mini Pig Association offers a therapy pet certification program. The AMPA training course information can be found here.
- If your pig is an Emotional Support Animal, include your letter of prescription from your doctor.
- Gather & compile nearby city ordinances that allow pet pigs.
- Gather and compile photos of your mini pig enjoying life as a beloved pet.
- Record video of your mini pig doing tricks, following commands, or interacting with people.
- Start a Change.org petition and ask all your friends, family, and fellow pig owners to sign in support.
- Gather and compiled statistics of your city and neighboring cities of yearly dog bites vs yearly pet pig bites.
- Visit Pet Pig Zone website and contact Rebecca DiNolfi, the pet pig zoning expert.
- Contact a local attorney for help.