Imperial County, CA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Animal keeping in unincorporated Imperial County is controlled by the Land Use Code (Title 9, Division 5), which sets what each zone allows. In the R-1 (single-family residential) zone, Section 90502.13 permits the keeping of small fowl, rabbits and birds for domestic or hobby purposes, limited to five of any one or combination, provided they are kept within proper enclosed containment structures. The same section limits small domestic pets such as cats and dogs to five of any one or combination. Medium animals (such as goats, hogs or sheep) are allowed only on R-1 lots larger than one-half acre, at two medium animals per acre, and large animals (horses, cattle, mules) only on lots larger than three-quarter acre, at one large animal per three-quarter acre up to five acres; otherwise the breeding or keeping of large and medium animals is strictly prohibited in R-1. Animal-keeping structures must be set back at least 30 feet from the primary residence, 80 feet from the front lot line, 25 feet from any side or rear lot line, and 100 feet from any school, public park or water well. Far larger numbers are allowed in the agricultural zones. Because rules depend on your zone and lot size, verify your parcel's zoning with Imperial County Planning & Development Services before adding animals.