Chickens & Livestock: Burbank vs Lancaster
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Burbank, CA and Lancaster, CA?
Lancaster has fewer restrictions than Burbank.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Burbank bans crowing roosters on residential property and caps birds, fowl, rabbits, and chinchillas at 25 (combined) without a permit. Cows, goats (except one permitted pygmy goat), sheep, and most livestock are outright prohibited.
View full Burbank rules →Lancaster, CA
Los Angeles County
Lancaster may permit backyard chickens with limits on flock size and setbacks. Roosters typically banned. Livestock restrictions vary by zoning district.
View full Lancaster rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Roosters | Crowing roosters banned w/o permit | Usually prohibited |
| Bird/Fowl Limit | 25 combined (BMC 5-1-304) | - |
| Pygmy Goats | 1 max, permit required (BMC 5-1-308) | - |
| Hens | - | Typically 4 to 6 allowed |
| Coop Setback | - | 20 to 40 feet from neighbors |
| Livestock | - | Agricultural zones only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
Can I keep backyard chickens in Burbank?
Yes, hens are allowed - up to 25 live birds/fowl combined on residential property without a permit (BMC 5-1-304). Crowing roosters are prohibited unless you obtain a Planning Commission-approved permit.
Are goats, cows, or sheep allowed?
Cows, calves, bulls, sheep, and goats are listed in BMC 5-1-301 as prohibited in the City. The only exception is one pygmy goat with a permit (BMC 5-1-308) or one Vietnamese potbellied pig under 100 lbs with a permit (BMC 5-1-307).
Lancaster FAQ
Can I keep chickens?
Many cities allow 4 to 6 hens with proper coop setbacks. Roosters are typically prohibited. Check Lancaster municipal code.
What about goats?
Usually restricted to agricultural or rural residential zones with minimum lot sizes.
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