Chickens & Livestock: Anaheim vs Irvine
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Irvine, CA?
Anaheim and Irvine have similar restriction levels.
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 →Irvine, CA
Orange County
Irvine allows up to 6 hens with a permit under IMC Title 4, Division 5, Chapter 9 (Livestock and Poultry). Roosters are prohibited. Hens must be kept in proper enclosures with a 20-foot setback from neighboring structures and a 5-foot setback from property lines.
View full Irvine rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Anaheim | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Density | 1 per 1,800 sq ft | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited | Prohibited |
| Permit | Not required | - |
| Code | AMC 18.38.030 | - |
| Max Hens | - | 6 (with permit) |
| Dwelling Setback | - | 20 ft from neighboring structure |
| Property Line Setback | - | 5 ft |
| Code Section | - | IMC Title 4, Div. 5, Ch. 9 |
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.
Irvine FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Irvine?
Yes, up to 6 hens with a residential animal permit. Roosters are prohibited. Coops must be at least 20 feet from neighboring dwellings and 5 feet from property lines.
How do I get a chicken permit in Irvine?
Apply for a residential animal permit through the City of Irvine. The application requires neighbor notification and review by city staff.
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