Norwalk, CA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Zone restriction
- Poultry/livestock allowed only in R-H zone
- Minimum lot size
- 9,000 square feet in the R-H zone
- Animal unit ratio
- 1 unit per 3,000 sq ft of lot
- Unit size
- 5 birds equal one animal unit
- Roosters
- Prohibited citywide, no exceptions
- Bees
- Prohibited citywide on residential property
- Enclosure setback
- At least 35 feet from any dwelling
Summary
Norwalk allows backyard chickens, ducks, turkeys and similar fowl only on residential-horse-property (R-H) zoned lots of at least 9,000 square feet, capped at one animal unit, five birds excluding roosters, per 3,000 square feet of lot area under Municipal Code Section 17.04.200. Roosters and bees are banned citywide on any residential property, in every zone, with no exceptions for the R-H zone.
Animal Regulations in the R-H Zone. 1. The following regulations apply to the keeping and maintenance of animals for all properties located in the R-H zone: a. A minimum lot size of 9,000 square feet is required for the keeping and maintenance of any animal listed in subsection (D)(2) of this section; b. In addition to animals permitted pursuant to subsection C of this section, a maximum of one animal unit, as defined in subsection (D)(2) of this section, is allowed for each 3,000 square feet of gross lot area; ... 2. Animal units shall be defined as one of the following: ... f. Five turkeys, grouse, chickens (excluding roosters), quails, guineafowl, peafowl, pheasants, ducks, geese, or swans, and their offspring not exceeding three months of age. ... Prohibited Animals. 1. The following animals are expressly prohibited on any property zoned for or developed with a residential use: ... c. Roosters; and d. Bees.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4609620; v5 updated 2025-12-16).
Full Breakdown
200(D)'s R-H zone rules. 200(C) already allows. 200(E)(1)(c), along with bees. Each animal unit needs its own enclosure at least 12 feet by 12 feet, set back at least 35 feet from any dwelling unit, plus an animal yard of at least 500 square feet, minimum 12 by 42 feet, capped at 2,000 square feet, that provides space for the animals to range. 140 that stays in good standing, reviewed by the Director of Community Development. The prohibition on wild and dangerous animals, poisonous reptiles, roosters and bees applies to every residential property citywide regardless of zone, though it doesn't apply to animals passing through the City safely secured, or to a legally permitted circus, show or temporary event.
Violations & Fines
Keeping chickens, ducks, turkeys or other R-H zone livestock outside the R-H zone, on a lot under 9,000 square feet, beyond the one-animal-unit-per-3,000-square-foot ratio, without the required enclosure setbacks, or without a current animal permit violates Section 17.04.200. Keeping a rooster or bees anywhere in a residential zone is prohibited outright with no permit available, and the Planning Commission can revoke an animal permit found to be maintained as a nuisance or in violation of its terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Norwalk resident keep backyard chickens?
Are roosters legal in Norwalk?
How much space does a Norwalk animal enclosure for chickens or livestock need?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Norwalk
How Norwalk compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·California rules heatmap·Compare Norwalk to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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