Moreno Valley allows backyard chickens in most residential zones subject to lot size, setback, and number limits. Roosters are generally prohibited on smaller residential lots. Larger livestock such as horses and goats are restricted to Rural Residential and Agricultural zones with specific minimum lot sizes.
Moreno Valley Municipal Code Title 9 addresses animal-keeping based on zoning district. In standard residential zones (R-1, R-2, R-3), hens are typically allowed in limited numbers — commonly up to 5 or 6 hens — provided they are kept in a clean coop at least 20 feet from the property line and from any neighboring dwelling. Roosters are prohibited in standard residential zones due to noise concerns. Rural Residential (RR) zones and Agricultural zones, which exist in unincorporated pockets and the Reche Canyon area nearby, allow a broader range of livestock including goats, sheep, horses, and small numbers of cattle, subject to minimum lot sizes (often 20,000 square feet or more for the first horse). Keeping any livestock requires maintaining sanitary conditions — droppings cannot accumulate to create odor, fly, or rodent nuisances, and feed must be stored in rodent-proof containers. The California Food and Agricultural Code sections 29001 and following regulate livestock brand inspection, stray livestock, and disease control. Riverside County Department of Animal Services handles stray livestock calls. Slaughtering of animals on residential property is prohibited except for personal food production under very limited circumstances.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Moreno Valley code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Moreno Valley, CA
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Moreno Valley, CA
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