Compton Chickens & Livestock Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Compton Municipal Code Chapter 10-1 governs the keeping of animals within city limits, including poultry and livestock. As a densely developed urban city in south Los Angeles County, Compton places significant restrictions on farm animal keeping to protect residential quality of life. Roosters are outright prohibited in all residential zones due to the noise disturbance they create in closely spaced neighborhoods. Hens may be kept in limited numbers on residential properties that meet minimum lot size requirements, but properties must maintain adequate setbacks from neighboring dwellings.

Chicken coops and poultry enclosures must be located at least 35 feet from any neighboring residential structure, and the coop itself must be a fully enclosed structure that prevents birds from roaming freely onto adjacent properties. All enclosures must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition, free from accumulations of manure, decaying food, and standing water that could attract rodents or create offensive odors. Failure to maintain sanitary conditions can result in the animal-keeping privilege being revoked through nuisance abatement proceedings.

Larger livestock including horses, goats, sheep, pigs, and cattle are generally prohibited on standard residential lots in Compton. The city's urban density and small lot sizes make it impractical and unsanitary to house large animals in most residential settings. Properties zoned for agricultural or equestrian uses may have different allowances, but such zoning is extremely limited within Compton's boundaries. The Compton Animal Control Division, operating under the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, enforces these regulations and responds to complaints regarding illegal animal keeping.

Residents considering keeping chickens or other animals should contact the Compton Community Development Department at (310) 605-5532 to verify the specific requirements for their property, including lot size minimums, setback measurements, and maximum animal counts. Violations discovered during inspections or through neighbor complaints trigger a notice of violation with a compliance deadline.