Louisiana Equine Laws: Everything
From the bayous to the piney woods, Louisiana offers a unique and rewarding landscape for horse lovers and backyard farmers alike. Whether you’re managing a few chickens and a trail horse on a rural property or running a boarding operation, understanding Louisiana equine laws is essential. The state’s approach to livestock, land use, and liability can directly impact how you care for and manage both horses and poultry.
This guide covers the must-know legal framework around equine ownership in Louisiana—especially for those managing mixed-species homesteads.
Why Louisiana Equine Laws Matter
Even in a livestock-friendly state like Louisiana, the law governs how you:
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Manage liability and injury risks
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Use land for livestock and poultry
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Comply with animal welfare standards
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Meet health and biosecurity regulations
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Handle fencing, boarding, and animal sales
If you’re raising chickens and horses on the same property, you’ve got dual responsibilities. Tools like chickencoopcalculator.com can help you properly design shelters, paddocks, fencing, and coop space to stay compliant.
Louisiana’s Equine Activity Liability Law
Are horse owners in Louisiana protected from liability if someone gets hurt?
Yes. Louisiana has a version of the Equine Activity Liability Act (RS 9:2795.1), which protects horse owners, trainers, and facility operators from being held liable for injuries resulting from the inherent risks of equine activities.
What this law means for you:
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You are not liable for injuries from horse behavior like spooking, kicking, or falling, unless gross negligence is involved.
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You must post warning signs in a clearly visible location on your property.
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The sign must contain specific language provided in the statute.
If you offer lessons, trail rides, or host visitors, this sign is your legal shield—without it, the law won’t protect you.
Zoning and Land Use Laws in Louisiana
Can you keep horses and chickens together in Louisiana?
Yes—especially in rural or agriculturally-zoned areas. However, zoning rules differ across parishes and municipalities, so it’s important to confirm your local codes.
Local ordinances may regulate:
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Animal units per acre (e.g., 1–2 acres per horse)
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Number of chickens allowed in residential areas
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Setbacks for barns, shelters, or coops from property lines and structures
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Noise and odor limitations for urban or suburban homesteads
For example, Baton Rouge and New Orleans may restrict poultry in city limits, while most rural parishes are more lenient.
Use chickencoopcalculator.com to determine what your land can support, based on the number of horses and chickens you plan to keep.
Animal Cruelty and Welfare Laws in Louisiana
What are your legal responsibilities to your animals in Louisiana?
Louisiana’s animal cruelty law (RS 14:102.1) prohibits neglect, abandonment, or cruelty toward animals—including livestock and poultry.
You are legally required to provide:
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Adequate food and clean water
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Proper shelter for weather protection
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Medical attention when needed
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Sanitary, humane living conditions
Neglect can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on severity. For those raising multiple species, proper planning ensures you meet care standards and avoid overcrowding or resource competition.
Need help planning space per animal? Chickencoopcalculator.com gives you custom recommendations based on your land, animals, and local codes.
Coggins Testing and Equine Health Compliance
Is a Coggins test required in Louisiana?
Yes. A Coggins test for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) is mandatory under Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry regulations when:
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Horses are transported within or across state lines
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Participating in events, fairs, or public exhibitions
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Sold or transferred to a new owner
If your horses interact with others or leave your property, a current negative Coggins test is required. Most events also require up-to-date vaccinations for diseases like West Nile, EHV, and influenza.
If you raise chickens on the same property, practice biosecurity by:
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Separating feed storage areas
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Keeping waterers clean and species-specific
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Using separate tools for coop and barn cleaning
Chickencoopcalculator.com helps you layout species-separated areas to reduce the risk of contamination and disease spread.
Fencing and Animal Containment in Louisiana
Are you legally responsible for fencing in your horses?
Yes. Louisiana generally follows a “fence-in” policy, meaning horse and livestock owners must keep their animals contained within their own property.
Horse fencing recommendations:
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Height: 4.5 to 5 feet
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Materials: Wood rail, mesh wire, or electric fencing (avoid barbed wire for safety)
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Chickens should be housed in secure, predator-resistant coops or runs
Loose animals can result in fines, legal liability, or property damage claims. Protect your setup and your neighbors by mapping your fencing needs with chickencoopcalculator.com.
Sales, Leasing, and Boarding Contracts
Do you need a contract to sell or board horses in Louisiana?
Not required by law—but highly recommended. Contracts prevent disputes and clarify expectations, especially when dealing with money or care responsibilities.
Your equine contract should include:
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Full horse description (breed, age, health, ID)
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Sale price, lease terms, and payment schedule
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Disclosure of behavior or health issues
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Responsibilities for feeding, medical care, and emergencies
If you’re selling chicks, eggs, or poultry gear, even small-scale, you should keep transaction records—especially for repeat buyers or commercial sales.
Riding Horses on Public Land in Louisiana
Can you ride horses on public trails in Louisiana?
Yes—Louisiana offers several equestrian-friendly trails and public spaces.
Top riding destinations include:
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Bogue Chitto State Park
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Kisatchie National Forest
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Tunica Hills WMA
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Lake Claiborne State Park
Trail etiquette:
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Stick to designated horse trails
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Pick up manure near staging areas
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Follow yield rules (horses typically have the right of way)
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Carry proof of Coggins test when attending group rides or events
Always check with the Louisiana Office of State Parks for trail conditions and permit rules before hauling out.
Managing Horses and Chickens Together: Louisiana Homestead Tips
Raising chickens and horses together is popular in Louisiana’s rural communities—but it takes planning to avoid health, zoning, or neighbor issues.
Smart mixed-species practices:
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Build separate housing for poultry and equines
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Rotate pasture and coop locations to prevent overgrazing and contamination
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Compost manure and bedding to control pests and odor
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Store feed in sealed, rodent-proof containers
Use chickencoopcalculator.com to create a farm layout that supports both species while staying efficient and within legal limits.
When to Consult a Legal or Agricultural Expert
Should you talk to a lawyer about your farm setup?
Yes—especially if you:
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Run a boarding, riding, or poultry business
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Need help writing a lease or sales contract
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Face zoning disputes or animal control issues
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Have received a civil complaint related to your livestock
A Louisiana-based agricultural or equine lawyer can help you stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes.
Conclusion
Louisiana is a state that respects rural living—but you still need to follow the law. Whether you’re training Thoroughbreds, riding trails, or raising hens for fresh eggs, compliance with equine laws protects your animals, your land, and your lifestyle.
Before you expand or build, visit chickencoopcalculator.com—the go-to planning tool for small farms raising chickens and horses together.
Farm smart. Ride free. Stay legal—and enjoy everything Louisiana has to offer.
