Downey allows up to 5 chickens, rabbits, or pigeons in any combination per lot (DMC 9514.02). Roosters are strictly prohibited. Up to 100 racing/homing pigeons allowed in R-1 zones with a CUP.
Downey regulates backyard poultry and livestock by zoning district. Residential zones typically allow a limited number of hens (4 to 6 common) with no roosters. Coops must meet setback requirements (usually 20 to 40 feet from neighboring homes). Coops must be kept clean and sanitary. Larger livestock (goats, pigs, horses) typically restricted to agricultural or rural residential zones with minimum lot sizes. Some cities require permits for any poultry. CA Right to Farm Act (Civil Code §3482.5) protects existing agricultural operations.
Unauthorized livestock: removal order. Nuisance conditions: $100 to $500/day. Roosters in prohibited areas: immediate removal.
Downey, CA
Downey regulates leaf blower noise under its general noise ordinance. Gas-powered leaf blowers must comply with the 85 dBA construction equipment limit and o...
Downey, CA
Downey prohibits amplified music that exceeds ambient noise levels by more than 5 dBA at the property line. Quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM carry stricter lim...
Downey, CA
Industrial noise in Downey must not exceed established ambient levels by more than 5 dBA at the receiving property line. Corrective factors apply during dayt...
Downey, CA
California law (AB 1236) requires streamlined permitting for EV charging stations. Downey must provide expedited permits for residential EVSE installations. ...
Downey, CA
Driveway modifications in Downey require approval from Planning and possibly Engineering. Paving projects in the front yard area must meet development standa...
Downey, CA
Downey restricts oversized vehicle parking on public and residential streets. RVs must obtain permits under DMC 3182.5. Emergency parking allowed for 24 hour...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle chickens & livestock.
See how Downey's chickens & livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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