Backyard chickens are allowed in Santa Monica with restrictions. Roosters are prohibited in residential areas due to noise. Livestock keeping is restricted by zoning district. The city enforces sanitary maintenance standards.
SMMC Chapter 4.04 regulates animal keeping in Santa Monica. The code does not contain specific provisions permitting chickens, poultry, or livestock in residential zones. Beekeeping is allowed on single-family residential property with a maximum of two hives, requiring registration with Animal Control and specific siting requirements. The code focuses primarily on household pets (dogs, cats) and does not establish a permitting framework for chickens or other fowl in residential areas. Santa Monica's dense urban character and strict zoning may effectively prohibit livestock keeping.
Keeping prohibited animals may result in code enforcement action, animal control intervention, and fines under SMMC Chapter 1.09.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle chickens & livestock.
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