Can You Keep Goats in Milwaukie, Oregon? Yes — Up to 4 With Rules

Yes, the City of Milwaukie allows residents to keep goats under specific conditions (Milwaukie Municipal Code Chapter 6.08).

Requirements

• Maximum: 4 goats per residence.
• Permit: Not required for ≤4 goats.
• Enclosure: Minimum 400 sq ft per goat; 6 ft high fence; covered; solid floor (concrete, gravel, or wood).
• Health: Vaccinated for brucellosis & tuberculosis; annual parasite testing.
• Setbacks: Enclosure typically 10 ft from property lines (check code).
• Nuisance: No odors, noise, or runoff affecting neighbors.

Why These Rules?

• Goats are escape artists; need secure fencing.
• Waste management protects water quality (Milwaukie is near Willamette River).
• Disease prevention (brucellosis, TB zoonotic risks).

Practical Tips

• Nigerian Dwarf or Pygmy goats suit small lots best.
• Provide climbing structures, shade, fresh water.
• Milk handling: pasteurize or follow Grade A raw milk rules if selling.
• Check HOA/CC&Rs — they can override city permission.

Contact Milwaukie Community Development Dept. (503-786-7600) for current code verification before acquiring goats.