Certainly rural laws will be different in different countries, and may even vary in different parts of the country, so this should be considered as a guideline for what laws you need to research further as they pertain to you and where you live.

Pets and Animals

Just because you live in the country does not mean you can have all the pets and animals you want. There are several facts to consider. If you are in a subdivision there could be specific regulations in place as to what animals you can keep, and how many. There are also other laws about space requirements per animal, and manure disposal if you keep livestock. Nobody wants waste to run into the water supply, nor do they want a pile of manure next to their home.

Most large animals have space requirements, your county probably specifies how many animals of which type you can keep per number of acres you have. Of course you have to be practical about it too, so you do not overcrowd and cause stress, illness, and fighting.

You need to be aware that if your animals leave your property at any time you may be fined in most areas. This is very true if livestock get on to the road.

Also along this line some areas have laws allowing you to shoot trespassing strays, while most areas require you contact your local county animal shelter to report them, in case somebody was dumping their neighbors pet in the country, or their own (which is animal abandonment).

If you are in a rural subdivision there might be other rules in regards to what animals you can keep.

Fires

In most rural areas people burn a portion of their garbage and some enjoy campfires. Typically a fire ban means no fires what-so-ever, and most areas require burn permits for all fires other than small campfires, particularly in the summer months.

Hunting

Just because you own the land does not give you permission to hunt animals on your land if it is out of season. Additionally you might need permission to shoot any wildlife such as coyotes, and so forth, that are on your property.

Noise

Although your neighbors are farther away than in the city, sounds do carry. If you are having a loud party it is a good idea to check laws about time restrictions. You may have to turn it down at a certain time of night.

Weeds

Just like in the city you have to be aware that some plants are noxious weeds. These can be a problem if they get into farmers fields and crops. When buying plants for your garden be especially careful not to get anything that may self seed. Say away from those listed as invasive, or you may find yourself slapped with a fine and an order to remove them. This can be quite severe if the plants have already spread. Dandelions are not an issue, as these are actually beneficial for most animals to eat, we are talking about plants that are toxic to animals when they spread to hay fields or crops for human consumption.

Ir you live near a lake you might have issues in regards to chemicals you can use on your lawn (and for insects), as these will wash into the lake and may cause environmental problems.

Unsightly Property

Just as in the city, if somebody lodges a complaint about your property being unsightly, you may have to clean it up or face a fine. Generally tall grass is not an issue (unless it is a fire hazard) but large amounts of junk near the road could be a concern. Letting your garbage blow on to the road is certainly going to spell trouble for you.

Related Links

Moving from the City to the Country

Concerns with Keeping Different Types of Livestock Together