Sacramento allows up to 3 hens (no roosters) in residential zones under SMC 9.44; larger livestock only in Agricultural Residential (A) zones.
Under SMC Chapter 9.44 and Title 17 zoning, Sacramento residents can keep up to 3 hens in most residential (R-1, R-1A, R-2) zones provided coops sit at least 20 feet from dwellings and 10 feet from property lines. Roosters are banned citywide due to noise. No permit is required for 3 or fewer hens. Larger flocks, ducks, or quail require a conditional use permit. Goats, sheep, pigs, and horses are restricted to A zones with minimum lot size of 1 acre. Urban agriculture rules adopted in 2014 also allow community gardens.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Sacramento code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Sacramento, CA
The City of Sacramento does not have a stand-alone movable tiny house (THOW) ordinance like neighboring West Sacramento's Ordinance 24-9. Tiny homes are only...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento regulates carports under City Code Chapter 17.624 (Residential Accessory Structure and Use Regulations). Attached carports are governed by section...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento treats above-ground pools the same as in-ground pools when water exceeds 18 inches deep. A building permit, manufacturer's specs, retractable ladd...
Sacramento, CA
Per Sacramento City Code 9.16.090, all pools and spas need a 60-inch barrier with a self-latching gate. New or remodeled pools at single-family homes must ha...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento sheds under 120 sq ft don't need a building permit (Sac. City Code §15.20). Max 18 ft overall height, 10 ft wall height, min 4 ft from main house,...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento enforces both state law (Cal. Health & Safety Code §§115920-115929) and Sacramento City Code 15.64.070, which require every swimming pool or spa t...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Sacramento County.
See how other cities in Sacramento County handle chickens & livestock.
See how Sacramento's chickens & livestock rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.