Livestock is permitted on qualifying parcels in unincorporated Orange County depending on zoning district. Agricultural and equestrian zones allow horses, goats, sheep, and other livestock with minimum lot size requirements. Canyon communities have a strong equestrian tradition.
Unincorporated Orange County allows livestock on properties zoned for agricultural or equestrian use under Title 7 (Zoning) of the Codified Ordinances. The A1 (General Agricultural) zone permits a wide range of livestock. Equestrian-oriented communities in Trabuco Canyon, Silverado Canyon, and parts of Orange Park Acres allow horses and other large animals. Minimum lot sizes apply: typically 20,000 square feet or more for large livestock. Setback requirements from property lines and residences apply to animal enclosures, barns, and corrals. Manure management and fly control are required to prevent nuisance conditions. OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 handles animal welfare complaints. Roosters may be restricted or prohibited even in agricultural zones due to noise. Small livestock (rabbits, pygmy goats) may be permitted on smaller lots depending on zoning. OC Planning at (714) 667-8888 can confirm zoning-specific livestock allowances.
Keeping livestock on non-qualifying parcels is a zoning violation. Nuisance conditions (odor, flies, noise) result in code enforcement action. Animal welfare violations reported to OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848. Zoning violations through Code Enforcement at (714) 667-8843.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
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