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Animal Ordinances in Murrieta, CA (2026)

8 verified animal ordinances for Murrieta, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Chickens & Livestock

Murrieta allows backyard chickens in most single-family residential zones with limits on number, no roosters in typical suburban zones, and setback requirements for coops. Larger livestock is limited to rural and equestrian-zoned properties.

Chickens and Livestock in Murrieta

Some Restrictions

Dog Leash Laws

Dogs in Murrieta must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet whenever off the owner's property, except in designated off-leash areas. Owners must carry waste bags and clean up after their pets.

Dog Leash Laws in Murrieta

Some Restrictions

Breed Restrictions

Murrieta does not impose breed-specific bans on dogs. California Food and Agricultural Code Section 31683 preempts breed-specific dangerous dog designations, though Murrieta enforces behavior-based dangerous and vicious dog regulations.

Dog Breed Restrictions in Murrieta

Few Restrictions

Beekeeping

Beekeeping in Murrieta is regulated by MMC §16.44.040 and Riverside County Ordinance No. 551. Apiaries must maintain a 400-foot setback from highways, schools, dwellings, and property boundaries.

Murrieta Beekeeping Regulations

Some Restrictions

Exotic Pets

California Fish and Game Code Section 2118 restricts ownership of many exotic species statewide. Murrieta residents cannot keep wild or restricted species, and California requires permits for species like large reptiles, certain primates, and most wildlife.

Exotic Pets in Murrieta

Heavy Restrictions

Wildlife Feeding

Feeding wildlife in Murrieta is discouraged and can be prohibited as a public nuisance. California Fish and Wildlife rules prohibit feeding big game mammals, and intentional feeding that attracts predators or creates nuisances can result in enforcement.

Wildlife Feeding in Murrieta

Some Restrictions

Livestock

Livestock keeping in Murrieta is limited to properties zoned rural residential, agricultural, or equestrian. Standard single-family lots cannot keep horses, goats, sheep, pigs, or cattle, though limited chickens are often allowed.

Livestock in Murrieta

Heavy Restrictions

Pet Limits

Murrieta generally limits households to a combined total of 4 dogs and cats over 4 months old per single-family residence, with additional animals requiring a kennel or special permit. HOAs often impose stricter limits.

Pet Limits in Murrieta

Some Restrictions

Looking for Riverside County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Murrieta city rules.

Animal Ordinances in Riverside County