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

Under Section 18.12.040(A) of the Merced County Unified Development Ordinance, farm animal keeping/raising in residential zones is an interim agricultural use permitted only until 75 percent of abutting parcels are developed. Up to two large animals (horses, cows, ostriches, swine) OR up to five birds other than household pets are permitted per parcel; Director approval is required for additional on-site animals. Critically, farm animal keeping/raising is NOT allowed as an accessory use to a residential use in the R-1 (Single-Family) and R-1-5000 zones — it is allowed in the R-R Rural Residential zone. In agricultural zones, the keeping of fowl shall be conducted in compliance with County Code Chapter 7.08, and animal pens enclosing animals or fowl may be located on the property line but must be at least 50 feet from any off-site dwellings (Section 18.10.040(M)(4)). Commercial poultry farms in agricultural zones require a Conditional Use Permit and are subject to Merced County Code Section 7.08 (Table 2-1). Larger operations may qualify as Animal Confinement Facilities under Chapter 18.64 with windshed setback requirements. Always confirm the parcel's zone with Merced County Community and Economic Development before adding birds.