Chickens & Livestock: Anaheim vs Costa Mesa
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Costa Mesa, CA?
Anaheim has fewer restrictions than Costa Mesa.
Anaheim, CA
Orange County
Anaheim allows chickens in residential zones under AMC 18.38.030 at a density of one chicken per 1,800 sq ft of lot area. Roosters are prohibited. No permit is required for chickens. Pot-bellied pigs limited to one per lot.
View full Anaheim rules →Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa prohibits livestock (including chickens) unless a special animal permit is approved by the chief of police. Keeping more than 5 domesticated animals also requires a permit. The permit fee is $15.49 non-refundable.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Anaheim | Costa Mesa |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Density | 1 per 1,800 sq ft | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited | - |
| Permit | Not required | - |
| Code | AMC 18.38.030 | - |
| Livestock/Chickens | - | Special permit required |
| Permit Authority | - | Chief of police discretion |
| Application Fee | - | $15.49 non-refundable |
| Pet Limit | - | 5 domesticated without permit |
| Contact | - | Animal Control — (714) 754-5311 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Anaheim FAQ
How many chickens can I keep in Anaheim?
One chicken per 1,800 sq ft of lot area under AMC 18.38.030. No permit required, but roosters are prohibited.
Can I keep a pot-bellied pig?
Yes, only one pot-bellied pig per residential lot. Breeding pot-bellied pigs is prohibited under AMC 18.38.030.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Costa Mesa?
Only with a special animal permit approved by the chief of police. Chickens are classified as livestock and require the permit, which costs $15.49 to apply.
How many pets can I have without a permit?
Up to 5 domesticated animals without a special permit. More than 5 domesticated animals, or any livestock, requires a permit.
How do I apply for an animal permit?
Contact Costa Mesa Animal Control at (714) 754-5311. The application fee is $15.49 (non-refundable) with an annual permit fee due upon approval.
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