Chickens & Livestock: Chino vs Ontario
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Chino, CA and Ontario, CA?
Chino has fewer restrictions than Ontario.
Chino, CA
San Bernardino County
Chino's identity is rooted in the Chino Agricultural Preserve (historically the largest dairy concentration in the U.S.), so livestock and poultry keeping is broadly permitted in agricultural and equestrian-zoned parcels under Title 20 Zoning, while standard residential zones limit fowl/livestock to small accessory numbers with setbacks. The Animal Resource Center of the Inland Empire (ARC) — which began servicing Chino on July 1, 2025 — handles enforcement.
View full Chino rules →Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario allows backyard hens in residential zones under the Development Code and OMC Title 6, with coop setbacks. Roosters are typically prohibited, and larger livestock require agricultural or equine zoning.
View full Ontario rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chino | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Zoning controls | Chino Mun. Code Title 20 — Agricultural (A) and Equestrian overlay zones inside the Preserve | - |
| Animal services | Animal Resource Center of the Inland Empire (ARC) — began Chino service July 1, 2025 | - |
| State right-to-farm | Cal. Civ. Code §3482.5 protects pre-existing ag operations | - |
| Sanitation backstop | Title 8 Health & Safety nuisance abatement applies to odor/manure | - |
| Hens | - | Allowed in residential with setbacks |
| Roosters | - | Generally prohibited residential |
| Setbacks | - | Typically 15 to 25 feet from homes |
| Larger Livestock | - | Agricultural or equine zones only |
| State Role | - | CDFA small-flock registration |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chino FAQ
Can I keep backyard chickens in a Chino R-1 home?
Yes, in limited numbers as an accessory use under Title 20, with coop setbacks from neighbors and no roosters allowed unless your parcel is in an Agricultural or Equestrian zone. Confirm the current head limit and setback with the Chino Community Development Department before building a coop.
Can I keep horses in Chino?
Yes — Chino's Agricultural and Equestrian overlay zones inside the Preserve area permit horse keeping subject to per-acre density and stable setback standards in Title 20. Most standard residential zones do not allow horses.
Who do I call about a livestock complaint?
Animal Resource Center of the Inland Empire (ARC) handles animal welfare; the Chino Code Enforcement Division (909-334-3250) handles zoning and nuisance complaints.
Ontario FAQ
Can I keep chickens in my Ontario backyard?
Yes, hens are generally allowed in residential zones with coop setbacks and cleanliness standards. Roosters are typically not allowed due to noise.
Can I keep a goat or horse?
Only on lots zoned for agricultural or equine use, primarily in the Ontario Ranch area. Standard residential lots do not permit livestock.
Compare other topics
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