Argyle Council reviews ordinance allowing livestock in SF1 zoning district

Argyle's Planning and Zoning Commission has taken a significant step towards accommodating local livestock ownership by proposing an amendment to allow certain farm animals on properties zoned as SF-1, provided they meet specific land requirements. During the meeting on July 9, 2025, the commission discussed the amendment, which would permit livestock, including horses and cattle, on SF-1 properties that have at least 1.5 acres of grazable land.

The amendment was prompted by a request from local residents Matt and Amelia Thompson, who sought to keep livestock on their property. The proposed ordinance aims to clarify that not all SF-1 properties will qualify for livestock due to varying lot sizes, as many are only one acre. The new regulation would ensure that only those with sufficient land can maintain animals, aligning with the community's rural character while adhering to existing zoning standards.

The commission emphasized that the amendment would not create a commercial livestock operation but would allow for private animal lots and stables. The proposed language includes a stipulation that properties must have a minimum of 1.5 acres of grazing land, excluding areas used for structures or non-agricultural purposes. This requirement is designed to prevent overcrowding and ensure that livestock can be adequately cared for.

Concerns were raised during the meeting regarding enforcement and the definitions of livestock. Questions about how the town would monitor compliance and the potential for disputes between neighbors were discussed. The commission noted that enforcement would primarily be complaint-driven, similar to current practices for properties that already allow livestock under different zoning classifications.

The commission's recommendation to the town council is to approve the amendment, which aims to enhance the rural lifestyle in Argyle while maintaining community standards. As the discussion continues, the commission is open to refining the ordinance to address concerns about definitions and enforcement mechanisms, ensuring that the new regulations serve the community effectively.