Animal keeping in unincorporated SLO County is governed by Inland Code Section 22.30.090 and Coastal Code Section 23.08.046. Chickens and small livestock are generally allowed in Residential Rural, Residential Suburban, and Agriculture zones, with intensity tied to lot size. Most urban Residential Single-Family lots have limited or no animal-keeping rights.
Raising or keeping animals as either an incidental or principal use must comply with County Code Section 22.30.090 in the Inland area and Section 23.08.046 in the Coastal Zone. Allowed animal types and numbers depend on the zoning category and parcel size. Residential Rural (RR) and Residential Suburban (RS) parcels generally allow chickens, rabbits, goats, sheep, and other small livestock subject to setbacks; Agriculture (AG) zones have the broadest rights including cattle and horses. Standard urban Residential Single-Family (RSF) lots often have limited animal-keeping options, with chicken-keeping restricted to small flocks and roosters generally discouraged due to noise. Setback requirements typically include separation from neighboring dwellings and property lines. Always confirm specific parcel zoning with Planning & Building before bringing animals home.
Violations of animal-keeping standards are code enforcement matters under Title 22 (inland) or Title 23 (coastal). Citations, abatement orders, and mandatory removal of animals are possible. Combined animal nuisance issues may also be enforced under Title 9.
San Luis Obispo County, CA
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San Luis Obispo County, CA
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San Luis Obispo County, CA
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San Luis Obispo County, CA
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San Luis Obispo County, CA
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San Luis Obispo County, CA
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See how San Luis Obispo County's chickens & livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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