In unincorporated Marin County, the Development Code (Title 22, Chapter 22.32) permits the keeping of up to 12 fowl and/or 12 rabbits or similar small animals as 'Livestock Operations, Small Animals.' Large livestock (cattle, goats, sheep, hogs) and equestrian uses are separately defined and zone-restricted.
Marin County Development Code Title 22 defines 'Livestock Operations, Small Animals' as the raising or keeping of up to 12 fowl and/or 12 rabbits or similar animals, excluding commercial hog raising, dairying, and larger livestock operations. Chickens, ducks, exotics, geese, guinea fowl, peacocks, rabbits, roosters, miniature goats, potbellied pigs, and similar animals are addressed in the same general small-animal category. Chickens are permitted in residential zones including RSP, RMP, RMPC, RA, RE, RR, R1, and R2, and the 12-fowl cap may be exceeded only with a discretionary use permit. 'Livestock Operations, Large Animals' covers cattle, goats, ostriches, sheep, hogs and similar farm animals in corrals or enclosures (excluding horses, donkeys, mules, and ponies, which are addressed separately). Standards in Chapter 22.32 control structures (e.g., chicken coops, defined as 'a structure designed to completely enclose chickens on all sides as well as below and above') and density. Property owners with confirmed livestock losses to predators may also use the County's Livestock Protection Program under the Department of Agriculture.
Keeping animals in excess of the 12-fowl / 12-rabbit small-animal threshold without a use permit, or in a zone where the use is not permitted, is a zoning violation enforced by the Community Development Agency: notice of violation, administrative fines, and an order to remove animals or apply for a use permit.
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Marin County, CA
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See how Marin County's chickens & livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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