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

The City of Livermore's Zoning Ordinance and animal control regulations establish the framework for keeping chickens and livestock on residential properties within city limits. Livermore occupies a unique position as a Tri-Valley city that retains significant semi-rural and agricultural character, particularly in its southern and eastern areas near the vineyards, rangelands, and the Altamont Hills. The city's zoning structure accommodates this character through a range of residential and agricultural zoning districts with varying animal-keeping allowances.

In standard single-family residential zones (R-1), the keeping of a limited number of hens — typically up to 6 on a standard residential lot — is permitted without a special use permit or conditional use permit. Hens must be housed in a secure coop or enclosure that is maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. Chicken coops must be set back from property lines and from neighboring dwellings to minimize impacts on adjacent residents. Setback requirements typically call for the coop to be at least 20 feet from any neighboring residential structure and at least 5 feet from side and rear property lines. Coops must provide adequate shelter, ventilation, and predator protection. Roosters are generally prohibited in standard residential zones because their crowing creates a noise nuisance that is incompatible with the density and proximity of homes in these neighborhoods.

In the city's rural residential zoning districts — which apply to larger-lot properties predominantly in the southern and eastern portions of Livermore — and in agricultural zones, residents may keep a broader range of livestock including horses, goats, sheep, cattle, pigs, rabbits, and poultry (including roosters). The number and type of animals permitted generally scales with lot size. Large livestock such as horses and cattle typically require a minimum lot size of approximately 20,000 square feet (roughly half an acre), with additional acreage required for each additional large animal. Smaller livestock such as goats and sheep may be permitted on slightly smaller lots depending on the specific zoning district regulations.

All animal keeping within Livermore city limits — regardless of zoning district — must comply with general nuisance provisions of the Municipal Code. Animal owners are responsible for preventing excessive noise, offensive odors, fly and rodent attraction, and waste accumulation that would constitute a nuisance to neighboring property owners. Manure and animal waste must be managed through regular removal or composting in a manner that does not create odor or pest problems. Animal enclosures and pasture areas must be maintained to prevent erosion and stormwater contamination.

Livestock slaughter on residential properties is prohibited within Livermore city limits. Animals kept for agricultural purposes on appropriately zoned properties must be processed at a licensed slaughter facility. Animal control services in Livermore are provided by Alameda County Animal Services, which handles complaints about livestock nuisances, animal cruelty, and stray livestock at (510) 667-7700.