Buena Park, CA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Buena Park amended its zoning code in August 2024 to allow backyard chicken keeping in single-family residential (RS) zones, codified at Municipal Code Section 19.348.050.B. The rules: no property may keep chickens without first obtaining a ministerial permit from the Community and Economic Development Department; an adequate enclosure must be provided, sized at a minimum of ten square feet of permeable land per chicken; the enclosure must protect the chickens from the elements and prevent wildlife or predators from entering; coops, runs, and enclosures may be in the side or rear yard but not the front yard, and must be at least 10 feet from any side or rear property line; chickens must receive feeding and water at intervals no longer than twelve hours apart; and coops must be kept clean and sanitary with manure and debris removed daily. The permit application uses a City-provided form requiring the property address, owner authorization, a site plan showing the enclosure location, and a self-attestation that the applicant completed a chicken-keeping training or certification course. The Voice of OC reported the City Council adopted the measure unanimously on August 13, 2024, capping flocks at six hens with no roosters. The Director may impose additional site-specific conditions and may deny, suspend, or revoke a permit for violations.