Animal Ordinances in San Bernardino, CA: What Residents Actually Need to Know
If you live in San Bernardino or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. San Bernardino has 7 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.
Livestock
Large livestock such as horses, goats, and cattle are allowed only in agricultural and rural-residential zones with minimum lot size and setback rules under Development Code Title 19.
Key details: Code: Development Code Title 19. Minimum Lot: Typically one acre. Setbacks: 35 to 50 feet from dwellings. Pigs: Generally limited to 4-H and FFA projects.
Citation for zoning violations, under-sized lots, or nuisance manure and odor conditions.
Wildlife Feeding
Feeding wildlife in San Bernardino is discouraged and often prohibited under nuisance and public-health rules. Coyotes, bears, and mountain lions from the San Bernardino foothills can be drawn into neighborhoods.
Key details: Code: SBMC 8.30 nuisance. State Reference: CDFW policy discourages feeding. Common Issues: Coyotes, bears, raccoons. Best Practice: No pet food outside overnight.
Citation under SBMC 8.30 for nuisance conditions; CDFW involvement for dangerous-wildlife situations.
Chickens & Livestock
San Bernardino allows chickens in certain residential zones under Development Code Title 19 with setback and sanitation rules. Roosters are generally restricted or prohibited in residential zones.
Key details: Code: Development Code Title 19. Hens: Allowed in qualifying residential zones. Roosters: Restricted or prohibited in residential. Animal Control: 909-386-9820.
Citation for zoning violations, unlicensed animals, or nuisance conditions.
Exotic Pets
California Fish and Game Code and Title 14 CCR 671 prohibit most exotic pets including large cats, primates, and many reptiles. San Bernardino defers to state rules and county permitting.
Key details: Primary Rule: 14 CCR 671. Banned Species: Ferrets, hedgehogs, big cats, primates. Permitted Common Pets: Dogs, cats, parrots, fish. Enforcement: CDFW with local support.
CDFW seizure, misdemeanor charges, and fines up to 5000 dollars per violation under Fish and Game Code.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. San Bernardino actively enforces its exotic pets requirements.
Dog Leash Laws
Dogs must be leashed when off the owner's property in San Bernardino under San Bernardino County Code Title 3. Off-leash is allowed only in designated dog parks.
Key details: Law: SB County Code Title 3. Leash Length: Six feet when off property. License: Required for dogs four months plus. Animal Control: 909-386-9820.
Impoundment, citation, and fines starting around 100 dollars under county Title 3.
Breed Restrictions
California Food and Agricultural Code 31683 preempts breed-specific dog bans. San Bernardino can require spay and neuter for certain breeds but cannot outright ban them.
Key details: State Law: CA F&A Code 31683 preempts bans. Local Option: Spay and neuter or breeder permits allowed. Dangerous Dogs: Handled by County Animal Control. Private Contracts: HOA and insurer rules still apply.
County Animal Control citations for unlicensed dogs or failure to comply with dangerous-dog orders.
If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find San Bernardino gives residents more flexibility on breed restrictions.
Beekeeping
Beekeeping is allowed in qualifying residential and agricultural zones with setback and water-source requirements. Africanized honey bees are common across the Inland Empire.
Key details: Registration: Annual with County Ag Commissioner. Setback: Typically 15 to 20 feet from property line. Flyway Barrier: Six feet high when near neighbors. Africanized Bees: Requeening recommended.
Citation for unregistered hives, setback violations, or nuisance bees.
The Bottom Line
San Bernardino's animal ordinances rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming San Bernardino is broadly strict or permissive.
All of the above reflects San Bernardino's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.