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

Fullerton's Zoning Ordinance establishes the regulatory framework for keeping chickens, poultry, and livestock within the city limits. As an established Orange County city of approximately 139,000 residents with a mix of residential densities, commercial corridors, and some remaining agricultural-transition properties, Fullerton takes a moderate approach that balances residents' desire to keep backyard hens with the need to prevent nuisance conditions in suburban neighborhoods.

In single-family residential zones (R-1), Fullerton permits residents to keep a limited number of hens (female chickens) on their property without obtaining a special permit. The hens must be housed in a secure, enclosed coop that meets the Zoning Ordinance's setback requirements from property lines and neighboring structures. Coops must be located in the rear yard and set back a minimum distance from side and rear property lines as specified in the municipal code. The enclosure must be predator-resistant and maintained in a clean, sanitary condition. Feed must be stored in sealed, rodent-proof containers. Roosters are strictly prohibited in all residential zoning districts due to the noise they generate, which is incompatible with suburban living at the densities typical of Fullerton's neighborhoods.

Larger livestock — including horses, goats, sheep, pigs, and cattle — are generally not permitted in standard residential zones. Properties that carry an agricultural or equestrian-overlay zoning designation may be eligible to keep such animals, provided the parcel meets the minimum lot-size requirements for the type and number of animals proposed. These larger-lot parcels are primarily found in portions of north Fullerton near the Fullerton hills. Animal keeping on these parcels must comply with enclosure, setback, and manure-management standards designed to prevent odor, fly breeding, and groundwater contamination. Multi-family residential zones (R-2, R-3) and higher-density areas do not permit the keeping of any poultry or livestock, as lot sizes and density levels are not conducive to animal husbandry.

Regardless of zoning, all animal keeping in Fullerton must comply with the city's nuisance provisions. Any condition that creates excessive odor, attracts rodents or flies, generates unreasonable noise, or otherwise constitutes a public nuisance may be cited by the Fullerton Code Enforcement Division, and the property owner may be required to abate the condition or remove the animals. Orange County Animal Care provides animal control services for Fullerton, and complaints about nuisance animals can be directed to OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 or to Fullerton Code Enforcement at (714) 738-6884.