San Ramon, CA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Backyard chicken keeping in San Ramon is permitted on residential lots subject to limits established in the Municipal Code and Development Code. Standard residential rules: maximum 6 hens per lot, no roosters (crowing prohibited for noise reasons), coops located in rear yards only, coop structures set back a minimum of 10 feet from side and rear property lines and at least 25 feet from any neighboring residence. Coops must be constructed with rodent-proof materials, predator-resistant enclosures, and proper ventilation. Chicken waste must be managed to avoid odors, flies, and runoff — regular coop cleaning is required, typically weekly at minimum. Feed must be stored in sealed containers to avoid attracting rats, raccoons, and other pests. Slaughter of poultry on residential property is prohibited. Sale of eggs from backyard hens is permitted in small quantities under California Cottage Food Operations (AB 1616) but requires registration if exceeding $75,000 annual gross income. Chickens must be confined to the owner's property at all times — free-ranging into neighbors' yards is prohibited. Enforcement is complaint-driven through San Ramon Code Enforcement. Common violations include roosters kept in error (a 'she' that turns out to be a 'he'), coops too close to property lines in dense Dougherty Valley lots, and odor nuisance. Fines start at $100 and escalate. Critically, HOA CC&Rs in virtually all San Ramon master-planned communities (Dougherty Valley, Canyon Lakes, Twin Creeks, Crow Canyon Country Club, Bishop Ranch residential) prohibit chickens entirely — HOA restrictions override the permissive city rule for properties in those communities. Pre-master-plan neighborhoods near San Ramon Valley Boulevard and older Alcosta area properties may have more flexibility. Contra Costa County 4-H clubs provide community education on responsible poultry keeping for youth.