Chickens & Livestock: Castro Valley vs Fremont
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Castro Valley, CA and Fremont, CA?
Castro Valley and Fremont have similar restriction levels.
Castro Valley, CA
Alameda County
Alameda County unincorporated areas generally allow chickens on residential parcels with setback requirements. Roosters and larger livestock are limited to agricultural zones. Minimum lot sizes apply for multiple animals.
View full Castro Valley rules →Fremont, CA
Alameda County
Fremont allows up to 6 hens on residential parcels under FMC Chapter 18, with coop setback requirements and no roosters permitted.
View full Fremont rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castro Valley | Fremont |
|---|---|---|
| Hens allowed | 4-6 residential typical | - |
| Rooster | Agricultural zones only | - |
| Coop setback | 15ft dwelling / 25ft neighbor | - |
| Horses | 2-5 acre minimum | - |
| Right to Farm | CA Civil Code 3482.5 | - |
| Hen Limit | - | 6 hens |
| Roosters | - | Prohibited |
| Setback | - | 10 feet property line |
| Dwelling Setback | - | 25 feet |
| Livestock | - | Agricultural zones only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castro Valley FAQ
Can I keep a rooster in unincorporated Castro Valley?
Generally no in R-1 single family zones. Roosters require agricultural zoning due to nuisance noise.
Do I need a permit for a backyard chicken coop?
A building permit is required if the structure exceeds 120 square feet. All coops must meet setback and sanitation rules.
Fremont FAQ
Can I keep a rooster in Fremont?
No. Roosters are prohibited in residential zones due to noise. Only hens are permitted, up to 6 per single-family parcel.
Do I need a permit for a chicken coop?
Coops under 120 square feet typically do not require a building permit, but must meet setback requirements in FMC Chapter 18.
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