Monterey County, CA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Monterey County Code defines 'livestock' under MCC section 8.04.010 to include horses, donkeys, mules, cows, sheep, goats, hogs, and 'domesticated bird not traditionally considered a pet,' which covers commercial poultry. Chickens (hens) for backyard egg production are generally allowed in residential zones (typically a small number, with rear-yard placement and a setback of at least 25 feet from neighboring dwellings) under Title 21 (inland) and Title 20 (coastal) zoning. Roosters are separately regulated: Monterey County's Rooster Keeping Ordinance (MCC Ch. 8.34 and related) prohibits operating a 'rooster keeping operation' in unincorporated areas without a permit or qualifying permit exemption, in response to long-running cockfighting enforcement in the Salinas Valley. Commercial poultry, dairy, and livestock operations require agricultural-zone designation (typically RA, A-1, F, or RG zones) and may require use permits. Cal. Food and Ag. Code chapters 4 and 5 (Sections 16001+) govern brand inspection, livestock disease, and rooster transport. Cities including Salinas, Soledad, and Greenfield have separate stricter limits within their boundaries.