Discussions in the Netherlands related to the maximum size of livestock buildings have led to stricter expansion rules in North Brabant, the country's most important province for swine and poultry production.

The province's parliament recently agreed to restrict maximum sizes for new livestock buildings to 1.5 hectares. An exception is made for 34 special "agricultural development areas" in which a maximum size of 2.4 hectares will be the rule, under very strict conditions.

The new size laws may have consequences for the rest of the country as well, since the decision has sparked debates in the neighbouring province of Limburg and animal welfare parties have decided to take the initiative to the national parliament.

Support for the restrictions is based on a popular movement, called "No to mega stables", which has started protesting against applications for building permits of large pig and poultry houses. Since the Netherlands is densely populated, a larger livestock operation will always be seen and smelled.

In addition, many people fear recent outbreaks of avian influenza, and Q Fever, which could affect public health, could be the result from keeping animals in large livestock operations.