Yuba County, CA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

In unincorporated Yuba County, backyard poultry is regulated through the zoning Development Code, Section 11.32.050 ("Animal raising and keeping"), not the animal-control chapter. Chickens, game fowl, turkeys, peacocks, squab, and rabbits are classed as livestock at a rate of 20 animals per one animal unit (AU). Within the valley growth boundary (VGB) the number of animals allowed depends on zone and acreage: residential RS, RM, and RH parcels allow 1 AU per acre with a maximum of 3 AU per parcel; RE parcels within the VGB allow 1 AU per acre up to 5 AU. Inside the VGB, no roosters are permitted, parcels must be at least one acre, and raising livestock is barred in front yards and on residential parcels that have not established a primary use. County-wide, no barn, coop, stable, or corral may be located closer than 50 feet to an abutting dwelling, and must be at least 100 feet from any well or year-round creek or river. Enclosures must be kept free of excess manure to control flies, vectors, and odor. Temporary FFA, 4-H, and school projects by students may apply for a waiver from the lot-size or zone limits.