Equine Law Blog

Protect Your Right to Keep Horses in Your Community

Your property stables horses, but your community seems anything but supportive. In fact, you’ve heard that the local government might be exploring possible zoning changes that might make it harder to stable horses in the community. Can you try to maintain things as they are without a costly lawsuit? Yes.

Get Active in Your Community

Actively participate in community groups that sponsor worthwhile events. The goal is to meet others and show them that you're a reasonable, likeable person who shares their concerns for keeping the community beautiful and maximizing property values. You might even meet current or future members of your City Council, Planning Commission, or Zoning Board of Appeals.

Keep Your Horse Facility as Neat and Clean as Possible

Opponents of "horse-favorable" zoning seek examples of why horses detract from property values. Give them no examples. Keep your horse barns and pastures in good repair, relocate manure piles away from view, and add flowers.

Keep Your Non-Horse Neighbors Happy

Consider making your neighbors comfortable with your horse facility and possible changes. Consider sharing with them your plans to install fencing or structures near property borders, even if you have no legal obligation to do so. Try to understand any concerns they voice. In my experience, I relocated part of my new pasture fencing after negotiation with a neighbor. The loss of pasture space was a worthwhile long-term investment. My neighbors were happy, they enjoyed my horses, and they have never forgotten the fact that I accommodated them.

Be Responsible

If horse facilities are not common in your community, remember that you're in the public eye every minute. Respect others' property and privacy. Don't trample or cut across someone's property without permission. Set an example for other horse owners in your area.

Organize (Even When All is Well)

In any battle involving new zoning ordinances, there can be strength in numbers. Seek out your allies, and share information on local government candidates known to have "anti-horse" leanings.

Land use disputes can be complicated. Contact a knowledgeable lawyer for help.

Categories: Regulatory, Zoning & Land Use