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

Huntington Beach's Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance (HBZSO) and Municipal Code Title 7 govern the keeping of poultry and livestock within city limits. The city's geographic diversity — ranging from dense coastal neighborhoods near Pacific Coast Highway to larger equestrian-oriented parcels in the Huntington Harbour and inland areas — is reflected in varying animal-keeping allowances that depend on the underlying zoning designation of each property.

In standard residential zones (RL, RM, and RH districts), hens may be kept in limited numbers for personal egg production. Up to 5 hens are generally permitted without a conditional use permit, provided the property meets minimum lot size requirements and the coop or enclosure satisfies setback and design standards. Roosters are prohibited on all standard residential lots throughout Huntington Beach due to noise impacts in closely spaced residential neighborhoods. Chicken coops must be set back at least 20 feet from any neighboring residential dwelling and at least 5 feet from all property lines, including side and rear boundaries. The coop must be a fully enclosed structure with a secure roof and walls that prevent birds from escaping and roaming freely. Enclosures must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition at all times — accumulated manure, decaying feed, and standing water must be promptly removed to prevent rodent attraction and odor nuisance conditions.

Huntington Beach's equestrian overlay zone and agricultural-zoned parcels — located primarily in the inland portions of the city — permit keeping horses, goats, sheep, and other large livestock subject to minimum lot size, setback, and density standards specific to each zone. Equestrian-zoned properties typically require a minimum of 20,000 square feet per horse, with stables set back at least 35 feet from any neighboring dwelling. Goats and sheep are also permitted in equestrian zones in limited numbers. Pigs and swine are generally prohibited in all residential and equestrian zones. All livestock enclosures must comply with the city's nuisance abatement standards and be maintained to prevent odors, flies, and noise that affect neighboring properties.

Animal control services for Huntington Beach are provided by Orange County Animal Care, and licensing requirements apply to dogs and cats but not typically to poultry. However, all animal keeping on residential property is subject to inspection and enforcement by the Huntington Beach Code Enforcement Division. Residents should contact the Community Development Department at (714) 536-5271 to verify the zoning designation of their property, confirm maximum animal counts, and review applicable setback requirements before acquiring chickens or livestock.