Martinez, CA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Martinez Municipal Code allows keeping of up to six hens on residential lots in single-family residential zones, with coop and run requirements. Roosters are prohibited in all residential zones due to noise concerns. Coops must be located at least 10 feet from side and rear property lines and 25 feet from any neighboring dwelling, with some neighborhoods requiring greater setbacks. Coops must provide a minimum of 4 square feet per bird indoor and 8-10 square feet per bird in the attached run. Structures must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition with regular waste removal; excessive odor or fly attraction constitutes a public nuisance violation. Slaughter of poultry on residential property is prohibited under Municipal Code Chapter 6.04 — birds raised for meat must be processed off-site at licensed facilities. Feed storage must be in rodent-proof containers. Poultry running at large is prohibited. Ducks, geese, turkeys, and other fowl are subject to more restrictive zoning and may require a special use permit. Neighboring agricultural parcels (Briones, rural Contra Costa) follow county code with fewer restrictions. California Food & Agricultural Code §3482.5 (Right to Farm Act) provides some protection for pre-existing agricultural operations but does not override Martinez residential zoning limits.