Santa Clara County Chickens & Livestock Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know
Few RestrictionsKey Facts
- Urban Zone Chicken Limit
- 15 chickens (zones R-4 through RS-10)
- Rural Zone Chicken Limit
- 30 chickens (zones E-1, A-2, A-1, etc.)
- Roosters Without Permit
- 4 or fewer
- Rooster Permit Required
- 5 or more roosters (Section B31-117)
- Permit Fee
- Set annually by Board of Supervisors
- Governing Code
- Division B31, Chapter X & Zoning Ordinance
The Short Version
Unincorporated Santa Clara County allows chickens and other small animals on residential properties, with limits based on zoning district. In urban residential zones (R-4 through RS-10), no more than 15 chickens are permitted. In rural and agricultural zones (E-1, A-2, A-1, RS-15, RS-25, RS-1a), up to 30 chickens are allowed. Roosters are permitted without a permit if you keep four or fewer; five or more roosters require a rooster coop permit under Section B31-117.
Full Breakdown
Unincorporated Santa Clara County is relatively permissive regarding the keeping of chickens and other poultry compared to many Bay Area jurisdictions. The number of chickens permitted depends on the property's zoning designation.
In urban residential zoning districts — including R-4, R-3, R-2, R-1, E-3, E-2, R-MH, R-M, RS-7.5, and RS-10 — property owners may keep up to 15 chickens. In rural and agricultural zoning districts — including E-1, A-2, A-1, RS-15, RS-25, and RS-1a — the limit increases to 30 chickens.
Roosters receive special treatment under Chapter X of Division B31 (Animals and Fowl). Under Section B31-117, no person may keep, maintain, or harbor five or more roosters in unincorporated Santa Clara County without first obtaining a rooster coop permit from the County Manager. The annual fee for this permit is set by resolution of the Board of Supervisors. Keeping four or fewer roosters requires no permit. All keeping of roosters is subject to the provisions of the county zoning ordinance.
This is notably more permissive than most incorporated cities within Santa Clara County. For example, San Jose allows a maximum of six hens with roosters prohibited entirely, and several other cities likewise ban roosters. The county's approach reflects the more rural character of many unincorporated areas, including communities like San Martin and the rural foothills.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Exceeding the permitted number of chickens or keeping five or more roosters without a permit is a zoning violation enforceable by the county code enforcement division. Violations may result in notices requiring reduction in animal numbers or permit application. Animal nuisance complaints — such as odor, noise from roosters, or unsanitary conditions — may trigger additional enforcement under the county's general animal control and nuisance provisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep roosters in unincorporated Santa Clara County?
How many chickens can I have on my property?
Are the chicken rules different in cities like San Jose versus unincorporated county areas?
Sources & Official References
Related Ordinances in Santa Clara County
How does Santa Clara County compare?
See how Santa Clara County's chickens & livestock rules stack up against other locations.