Santa Clara permits up to 6 hens in residential zones under City Code Chapter 6.10 with 20-foot setbacks from dwellings; roosters are prohibited and larger livestock require agricultural zoning.
Santa Clara City Code Chapter 6.10 allows residents in single-family zones to keep up to 6 female chickens (hens) as backyard poultry. Roosters are expressly prohibited in residential zones due to noise concerns. Chicken coops and runs must be located at least 20 feet from any dwelling on adjoining property and at least 5 feet from side and rear property lines. Coops must be kept clean, rodent-proof, and free of odors that could create a nuisance. Slaughtering of poultry on residential property is prohibited. Larger livestock including goats, sheep, pigs, horses, and cattle are not permitted in standard residential zones; agricultural or rural residential zoning with minimum lot sizes is required. Miniature or pygmy goats (under 100 pounds) may be kept as pets in some districts with permits. All animals must be kept in sanitary conditions per Santa Clara County Vector Control standards. Violations result in administrative citations starting at 100 dollars and possible animal removal.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Santa Clara, CA
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