Backyard chickens are permitted in Long Beach residential zones with restrictions. Roosters are generally prohibited in residential areas. Livestock keeping depends on zoning district and lot size requirements.
Under LBMC Chapter 6.20, no person shall keep 5 or more live chickens on residential property without a permit from the Animal Care Services Bureau. One fowl may be kept as a pet if its enclosure is at least 20 feet from any other person's dwelling. For permitted flocks, chickens must be kept no less than 50 feet from any single-family or two-family dwelling and no less than 100 feet from any hotel or dwelling occupied by three or more families. Crowing fowl (roosters) are prohibited under LBMC 6.20.040. Adequate enclosure or fencing must be provided with a minimum of 10 square feet of permeable land per chicken. Fowl may not run at large or be kept in front yards (LBMC 6.20.070). Permits are valid for one year. For goats, a permit and microchip are required under LBMC 6.20.150; goats must be neutered males kept for personal consumption only. Artificial coloring of fowl and rabbits is prohibited under LBMC 6.20.110.
Violations are subject to administrative citations: $100 first offense, $200 second offense within one year, $500 subsequent offenses. Unpaid fines may result in liens, small claims filings, or permit revocation. Contact Animal Care Services at (562) 570-7387.
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