Temecula, CA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Temecula Municipal Code Title 17 zoning controls animal-keeping. In most standard residential zones (LM, M, H — low-medium, medium, and high density), chickens and livestock are not permitted as accessory uses. In Hillside Residential (HR) and Very Low Density Residential (VL) zones with parcels 1 acre or larger, limited poultry and small livestock may be allowed with setbacks from neighboring dwellings (typically 50-100 feet for coops). Roosters are commonly prohibited or restricted because of noise complaints under Chapter 8.32 (Noise). Many of Temecula's eastern Wine Country and Equestrian parcels fall under Riverside County zoning (not city), where 5-acre minimum lots commonly allow horses, cattle, sheep, goats, and chickens with appropriate corral and shelter standards. Roripaugh Ranch and similar master-planned areas explicitly prohibit livestock under HOA CC&Rs. Coops and animal enclosures must be properly maintained to avoid odor, vermin, and noise nuisances under Property Maintenance Code Chapter 8.12. Slaughter of animals is prohibited in residential zones. Always verify zoning before acquiring poultry or livestock — keeping prohibited animals can result in citations and required removal.