Thinking about buying an acreage in Foothills County? 🏡🐎 Before you bring in the horses, cows, or chickens, it’s important to understand animal units—the system the county uses to regulate how many animals can legally be kept on a property.

These rules protect the land, support good stewardship, and help keep the peace between rural neighbours. Let’s break it down.

What Are Animal Units?

An animal unit is a standardized measurement used by Foothills County to manage livestock density on acreages and farms. Instead of setting limits by “number of animals,” the county uses units to balance different species and their impact on the land.

This ensures properties can sustainably support the animals living there.

Animal Unit Examples 🐎🐄🐑🐓

Here’s a quick look at how Foothills County defines animal units:

• 1 horse = 1 animal unit 🐎

• 1 cow = 1 animal unit 🐄

• 5 sheep or goats = 1 animal unit 🐑

• 100 chickens = 1 animal unit 🐓

Other animals, like pigs, llamas, or alpacas, also fall into the system—always check the official bylaw charts for exact details.

How Many Animal Units Can You Have?

The number of units you’re allowed depends on two things:

1. Parcel size (how many acres you own)

2. Zoning designation (agricultural, country residential, etc.)

For example:

• A small acreage zoned “Country Residential” may allow only a few animal units.

• Larger agricultural parcels can typically support many more.

👉 Pro tip: More land doesn’t always mean more animals. Zoning restrictions can be just as important as acreage size.

Why Animal Units Matter

Understanding animal units helps buyers avoid surprises like:

• Needing to reduce livestock after purchase

• Facing fines or bylaw enforcement

• Land degradation from overstocking

By planning ahead, you can make sure your property supports the animals—and lifestyle—you’re dreaming of.

FAQs: Foothills County Animal Units

Q: Do all acreages in Foothills County follow animal unit rules?
Yes—animal units apply to all rural properties within the county.

Q: Can I apply for an exception?
In some cases, you may apply for a permit or variance, but approval is not guaranteed.

Q: Where can I find the official chart?
Foothills County publishes detailed livestock and animal unit charts on their website and in the Land Use Bylaw.

Q: Do chickens really count?
Yes! 100 chickens = 1 animal unit. Always factor poultry into your totals.

Related Reading

• The 5-Acre Myth: How Much Land You REALLY Need

• Well Water 101: How to Test Before You Buy

• Hidden Costs of Acreage Living Near Calgary

Foothills County’s animal unit system is designed to keep rural living sustainable, healthy, and enjoyable for everyone. Whether you’re planning a hobby farm or just want a couple of horses, knowing the rules ensures your property fits your lifestyle goals.

✨ Thinking about acreage life? DM me “ANIMALS” and I’ll send you my free Acreage Buyer’s Guide with zoning charts + animal unit details.

About Kristen Edmunds

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.

Dreaming of wide-open spaces, fresh air, and maybe even room for a few horses? 🐎🌾 Acreage living near Calgary has incredible perks—but it also comes with hidden costs that many buyers don’t anticipate.

Before you commit to country life, here are the biggest costs you’ll want to budget for.

1. Water & Septic 💧

Most acreages rely on private wells and septic systems instead of city services. These need regular testing, pumping, and maintenance.

• Well testing should be done before purchase and regularly after.

• Septic systems require pumping every few years.

• Repairs or replacements can cost thousands if something goes wrong.

👉 Pro tip: Always include well and septic inspections as conditions in your offer.

2. Utilities ⚡

Utilities often cost more in rural areas. Depending on the property, you may pay for:

• Propane or natural gas delivery

• Higher electricity rates for rural service

• Rural internet solutions (satellite or wireless) which can be pricier and less reliable

3. Snow Removal & Mowing 🚜

That long driveway looks beautiful—until the first big snowfall. ❄️

• Snow removal equipment (plows, tractors, or snowblowers) is a must.

• Lawn care & mowing require bigger machines and more fuel.

• Hiring contractors adds recurring costs if you don’t want to do it yourself.

4. Insurance 🏡

Acreage properties often come with higher insurance premiums because:

• They’re further from fire stations.

• They may include outbuildings, barns, or shops.

• Some insurers view wells and septic as added risk.

5. Travel Costs ⛽

Living outside the city usually means:

• Longer commutes to work or school

• More driving for groceries and appointments

• Extra wear and tear on vehicles

Gas bills add up quickly, especially if you’re commuting daily.

FAQs: Hidden Costs of Acreage Living

Q: How much does it cost to maintain a well and septic?
Budget a few hundred dollars per year for testing and pumping, plus reserves for major repairs.

Q: Is acreage internet reliable?
Service has improved, but rural internet can still be slower and more expensive. Starlink is a popular option.

Q: Are property taxes higher on acreages?
Not always—property taxes depend on the county and assessed value.

Q: Should I budget for extra equipment?
Yes—mowers, tractors, or snowblowers are almost always necessary.

Related Reading

• Well Water 101: How to Test Before You Buy

• The 5-Acre Myth: How Much Land You REALLY Need

• Hidden Parks in Calgary You’ve Probably Never Seen

Acreage living near Calgary offers freedom, space, and natural beauty. But it also comes with hidden costs that buyers should prepare for—utilities, maintenance, insurance, and travel can all add up.

✨ With the right budget and preparation, acreage life can be just as rewarding as it looks in your daydreams.

Thinking about acreage living?
💬 DM me “COSTS” and I’ll send you my free Acreage Buyer’s Checklist to help you get started.

About Kristen Edmunds

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.