Arkansas Equine Laws: A Practical Guide
If you live in Arkansas and own horses—or plan to keep backyard chickens on the same property—understanding the state’s equine laws is essential. Arkansas has a rich rural tradition and is known for its relaxed lifestyle, but when it comes to livestock ownership, the laws are clear and worth knowing. Whether you’re a hobby rider, a homesteader, or just getting started with chickens and horses, this guide walks you through the must-know legal basics.
What Are Equine Laws in Arkansas?
Equine laws in Arkansas refer to legal protections, restrictions, and responsibilities around horse ownership and related activities. These include:
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Liability and injury protections
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Zoning laws for horse and poultry cohabitation
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Animal welfare and cruelty standards
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Health regulations like Coggins testing
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Sales, leasing, and boarding considerations
For those raising poultry alongside horses, like many backyard farmers do, knowing how these laws overlap with zoning and animal health rules is critical.
Arkansas Equine Activity Liability Act
Does Arkansas protect horse owners from liability?
Yes. The Arkansas Equine Activity Liability Act (A.C.A. § 16-120-201 to 16-120-202) shields horse owners and operators from lawsuits when injuries occur during horse-related activities.
Key points:
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Participants assume the inherent risks of equine activities like falling, getting kicked, or being bitten.
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Horse owners are not liable unless they acted with gross negligence or intentional harm.
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Warning signs are required on properties used for riding, boarding, or equine instruction.
This law is crucial for anyone who hosts friends, neighbors, or clients on their land for trail rides or lessons. Make sure those signs are up—it’s your legal safety net.
Zoning Laws: Horses and Chickens on the Same Property
Can you legally keep horses and backyard chickens together in Arkansas?
Yes, in most rural areas. Arkansas counties and municipalities usually support agricultural land uses, but zoning still matters.
What you need to verify:
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Zoning classification (agricultural, rural residential, etc.)
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Minimum lot size per animal
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Setback distances for coops and barns
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Whether local ordinances limit rooster ownership or noise
If you’re mapping out a small homestead, chickencoopcalculator.com is a smart tool for determining how much space you need for chickens and horses without breaking local laws.
Animal Cruelty and Neglect Laws
How does Arkansas protect animals like horses and poultry from abuse?
Under A.C.A. § 5-62-103, Arkansas defines animal cruelty as knowingly subjecting an animal to mistreatment or neglect. This applies to horses, chickens, and any other domesticated animals.
You are legally required to:
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Provide clean water and appropriate food
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Offer shelter that protects animals from extreme weather
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Seek veterinary care when an animal is sick or injured
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Avoid overworking or confining animals in cruel conditions
Animal cruelty can be charged as a Class A misdemeanor or a felony for repeated or severe offenses. With mixed species like horses and chickens, proper planning is essential to avoid overcrowding and neglect.
Not sure how many animals your land can support? Use the space calculator at chickencoopcalculator.com to plan responsibly.
Health Requirements: Coggins Test and Biosecurity
Is a Coggins test required in Arkansas?
Yes. Any horse that is:
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Transported across state lines
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Sold or transferred
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Entered into shows or events
…must have a negative Coggins test for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA). Some in-state activities may also require proof of testing.
Why this matters for poultry owners:
Even though EIA is horse-specific, having multiple animals increases your overall biosecurity responsibilities. Diseases like salmonella or avian flu can spread more easily when animals share outdoor spaces or food sources.
Separate feed areas and regular cleaning routines are essential. For a better layout, try this multi-species setup planner to avoid cross-contamination.
Property Fencing and Owner Liability
Do you have to fence in your horses in Arkansas?
Yes. Arkansas follows a “fence-in” policy, meaning you are legally responsible for keeping your horses (and other livestock) on your property.
Why fencing matters:
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Loose horses can cause vehicle accidents or property damage.
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If your horse escapes and injures someone or destroys a neighbor’s property, you’re liable.
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Chickens should also be fenced to prevent predation, theft, and complaints.
Use the fencing layout feature on chickencoopcalculator.com to calculate perimeter needs based on the number and type of animals you keep.
Selling, Leasing, and Boarding Horses in Arkansas
Do horse transactions in Arkansas require contracts?
Not by law—but it’s highly advisable. A written contract protects both parties whether you’re selling, leasing, or boarding a horse.
Your agreement should cover:
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Horse’s age, breed, health status, and ID
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Payment terms and sale conditions
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Any behavioral disclosures
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Care and emergency procedures for leased or boarded horses
For those expanding their poultry sales—like chicks or fresh eggs—written agreements are equally important, especially if you’re dealing with local markets or repeat buyers.
Trail Riding and Public Land Use
Can you legally ride horses on public land in Arkansas?
Yes. Arkansas offers incredible equestrian access in places like:
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Ozark National Forest
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Ouachita National Forest
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State parks with designated horse trails
Keep in mind:
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Some trails are multi-use, so horses must be well-trained around hikers and bikes.
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Clean up manure and pack out feed waste.
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Confirm seasonal restrictions or permit requirements before riding.
If your property borders public land or you use shared access roads, be sure your animals are properly controlled to avoid complaints or fines.
Managing a Backyard Homestead With Chickens and Horses
Combining horses and chickens on the same property is a dream for many Arkansans—and completely doable with smart planning.
Here are a few best practices:
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Use separate coops and barns with clear boundaries
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Rotate animals through different pasture areas to avoid overuse
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Maintain distinct water sources to reduce disease risks
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Use proper bedding and manage manure to keep things clean
Ready to design your perfect setup? Chickencoopcalculator.com was made for backyard farmers like you. Plan space, fencing, and coop sizes all in one place—so you can focus on the fun part.
When to Contact an Attorney
Should you talk to a lawyer about equine issues in Arkansas?
Yes—especially if you:
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Run a boarding or riding business
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Lease horses or offer lessons
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Are involved in a liability dispute
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Face zoning or animal control issues
Equine lawyers can help draft legally sound agreements, defend you in court, and navigate local regulations.
Conclusion
Arkansas gives horse and chicken owners the freedom to live close to the land—but with that freedom comes legal responsibility. From liability protections and fencing rules to zoning and health regulations, staying compliant protects your animals, your neighbors, and your peace of mind.
Before you build, buy, or expand your animal setup, head to chickencoopcalculator.com—your go-to tool for backyard planning and livestock harmony.
Keep your animals safe, your land compliant, and your dream lifestyle thriving.
