Animal Ordinances in Ventura, CA (2026)
6 verified animal ordinances for Ventura, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Chickens & Livestock
Ventura allows chickens and other small animals on residential property subject to zoning restrictions. The number of animals permitted depends on the zoning district and lot size. Roosters are generally prohibited in residential zones due to noise. Coops and enclosures must meet setback requirements.
Ventura Chickens & Livestock Rules
Some RestrictionsDog Leash Laws
Dogs in Ventura must be on leash in public areas except in designated off-leash areas per SBMC 8.50.040. All dogs must have current rabies vaccination and animal license. Designated off-leash areas require voice control, and owners must carry a leash and leash the dog at the first sign of aggression.
Ventura Dog Leash Laws
Some RestrictionsBreed Restrictions
Ventura does not impose breed-specific legislation (BSL) banning particular dog breeds. California state law (Food & Agriculture Code 31683) prohibits cities from enacting breed-specific bans. However, dogs of any breed declared dangerous or vicious face enhanced restrictions including muzzle and containment requirements.
Ventura Dog Breed Restrictions
Few RestrictionsCalifornia Food and Agricultural Code Section 31683 (Local Dog Control Programs — Breed-Specific Restriction)
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
Beekeeping is subject to state regulations and local zoning. CA Food & Agricultural Code requires CDFA hive registration. Hives must maintain water source on premises. Contact City Planning for zone-specific setback requirements.
animals/beekeeping
Some RestrictionsExotic Pets
CA Code of Regulations Title 14 §671 prohibits most wild and exotic animals as pets statewide. Ventura County Animal Services enforces additional local restrictions. No local exemptions for prohibited species.
animals/exotic-pets
Heavy RestrictionsWildlife Feeding
Ventura discourages feeding wildlife including coyotes, deer, and feral animals. Residents must secure trash and food sources to prevent wildlife encounters. Coyote encounters are increasingly common in Ventura's urban-wildland interface areas.
Ventura Wildlife Feeding Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Ventura County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Ventura city rules.
Animal Ordinances in Ventura County →