San Diego Chickens & Livestock Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know
Some RestrictionsKey Facts
- Small Lot (under 5K sq ft)
- Up to 5 hens
- Medium Lot (5K-10K sq ft)
- Up to 15 hens
- Large Lot (over 10K sq ft)
- Up to 25 hens
- Roosters
- Prohibited on lots under 1 acre
- Coop Setback from Neighbor Home
- 13 feet
The Short Version
San Diego allows backyard chickens on most residential properties but the specifics depend on your lot size and zone. On lots under 5,000 square feet, you can keep up to 5 hens. Lots between 5,000 and 10,000 square feet get up to 15. Larger lots allow up to 25. Roosters are banned on all residential lots under 1 acre. Your coop needs a 5-foot setback from side property lines and 13 feet from neighboring homes. San Diego doesn't require a permit for standard chicken keeping but you do need to register with the County Department of Animal Services.
Full Breakdown
San Diego's animal regulations (Municipal Code Chapter 4, Article 2, Division 6) use a sliding scale based on lot size. The tiered system accommodates the city's mix of dense urban lots and larger suburban and semi-rural properties.
The coop requirements are specific: 5-foot setback from side property lines, 13 feet from neighboring dwelling units, and the coop must be in the rear 50% of your lot. The enclosure needs a solid floor or buried wire mesh to prevent rodents and predators. San Diego has a notable rat population and unsecured chicken feed is a major attractant.
Registration with the County Department of Animal Services is technically required but enforcement is complaint-driven. The registration is free and mainly helps animal control respond to complaints with accurate information. The city also requires that coops be kept clean and free of odor — complaints about smell are the most common enforcement trigger.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Violations are handled through code enforcement with a notice to comply within 30 days. Unresolved violations carry fines of $100 per day. Animal cruelty or unsanitary conditions can trigger immediate action from the Department of Animal Services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many chickens can I have in a typical San Diego backyard?
Can I sell eggs from my San Diego chickens?
What about keeping ducks or quail in San Diego?
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