Animal Ordinances in Fullerton, CA (2026)
8 verified animal ordinances for Fullerton, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Chickens & Livestock
Fullerton allows keeping chickens and certain small animals on residential properties subject to zoning restrictions under Municipal Code Chapter 15.50. The number of animals permitted depends on the zoning district and lot size. Roosters are generally prohibited in residential zones due to noise.
Fullerton Chicken and Livestock Keeping Rules
Some RestrictionsDog Leash Laws
Fullerton requires dogs to be on a leash when in public areas under Municipal Code Chapter 6.24. Dogs must be restrained by a leash not exceeding 6 feet in length when on public streets, sidewalks, parks, and trails. The city operates off-leash dog parks where dogs may run freely.
Fullerton Dog Leash Laws and Off-Leash Areas
Some RestrictionsBreed Restrictions
Fullerton does not have breed-specific legislation banning or restricting any particular dog breed. California state law (Food and Agricultural Code Section 31683) prohibits breed-specific bans by local governments. However, individual dogs that bite or display aggressive behavior may be declared potentially dangerous or vicious regardless of breed.
Fullerton Dog Breed Restrictions and Dangerous Dog Rules
Few RestrictionsCalifornia Food & Agricultural Code § 31683
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent a city or county from adopting or enforcing its own program for the control of potentially dangerous or vicious dogs that may incorporate all, part, or none of this chapter, or that may punish a violation of this chapter as a misdemeanor or may impose a more restrictive program to control potentially dangerous or vicious dogs. Except as prov...
Beekeeping
Fullerton regulates beekeeping under Municipal Code Chapter 6.24 (Animals) and zoning provisions. Beekeeping may be permitted on residential properties subject to hive placement, setback, and colony number restrictions. Bee swarm removal and nuisance complaints are handled by OC Animal Care and private pest control.
Fullerton Beekeeping Rules for Residential Properties
Some RestrictionsExotic Pets
Fullerton follows California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations on exotic animal ownership. Many exotic species require state permits, and some are entirely prohibited. Local nuisance ordinances also apply to exotic pets kept in residential areas.
Fullerton Exotic & Non-Traditional Pet Rules
Some RestrictionsCal. Code Regs. tit. 14, § 671 (Restricted Species Permits)
Restricted Species Permits are required for every person who imports, exports, transports, or possesses any restricted animal listed in Section 671(c), Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations (CCR) (PDF) . Entitlements Fee Description Restricted Species Permit Application/Amendment New: $155.53 Renewal and Amendment: $80.60 Required for every new permit, permit renewal or amendment of a...
Wildlife Feeding
Fullerton Municipal Code and Orange County Health Care Agency guidelines prohibit feeding wildlife in ways that attract coyotes, raccoons, or other nuisance animals. Residents must secure trash in animal-proof containers, avoid leaving pet food outdoors, and refrain from intentionally feeding wild animals including feral cats on public property. The Fullerton Police Department non-emergency line handles wildlife complaints.
Fullerton Wildlife Feeding Regulations
Some RestrictionsLivestock
Fullerton's Zoning Ordinance restricts keeping livestock such as horses, goats, sheep, pigs, and cattle to properties with agricultural or equestrian-overlay zoning that meet minimum lot-size requirements. Standard residential zones (R-1, R-2, R-3) do not permit large livestock. Properties in qualifying zones in north Fullerton near the hills may keep animals subject to enclosure setbacks, manure management, and nuisance standards.
Fullerton Livestock Regulations
Some RestrictionsAnimal Hoarding
Fullerton follows Orange County animal control regulations that limit the number of pets per household. Animal hoarding situations involving unsanitary conditions or neglected animals are addressed through county animal control and city code enforcement.
Fullerton Animal Hoarding & Pet Limit Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Orange County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Fullerton city rules.
Animal Ordinances in Orange County →