Bellflower, CA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Bellflower's zoning code (Chapter 17.16, SF Single Family Zone) states that for each dwelling unit the occupant may keep only cats and dogs, not exceeding three of either over four months of age - chickens and other poultry are not listed as a permitted residential animal. However, any person wishing to keep an animal not specifically classified elsewhere in the code, including one or more chickens, that will not jeopardize or endanger public health, safety, or welfare may apply for a valid Animal Permit under Chapter 17.120. By-right poultry keeping is provided for in Chapter 17.20, the A-E Agricultural Estate Zone, where the breeding, hatching, raising, and marketing of chickens, ducks, pigeons, guineas, rabbits, and other listed animals is permitted on lots of at least 10,000 square feet. In the A-E zone, one animal unit may be kept per 5,000 square feet (maximum six units per parcel), and an animal unit equals up to 25 birds such as chickens, ducks, or rabbits. Roosters and any animal not specifically listed are prohibited in the A-E district at any time. Third-party sites that report a flat "25 hens, no permit" allowance are describing the A-E animal-unit math, not standard residential zoning.