Chickens & Livestock: Chula Vista vs El Cajon
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Chula Vista, CA and El Cajon, CA?
Chula Vista and El Cajon have similar restriction levels.
Chula Vista, CA
San Diego County
Chickens, domestic fowl, and livestock keeping in Chula Vista is regulated under CVMC Chapter 6.04. The number of animals permitted depends on lot size and zoning district. Roosters and crowing fowl may be restricted. Livestock keeping requires adequate setbacks from neighboring dwellings.
View full Chula Vista rules →El Cajon, CA
San Diego County
El Cajon allows up to 10 chickens in single-family residential zones at 1 per 100 sq ft of unpaved rear yard. No roosters. Chickens must be in fully enclosed runs with 10 sq ft per bird. Other livestock restricted to larger-lot zones.
View full El Cajon rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chula Vista | El Cajon |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | CVMC Chapter 6.04 | - |
| Poultry Housing | Must be in enclosed structures or runs | - |
| Roosters | May be cited as nuisance (CVMC 17.24) | - |
| Lot Size Factor | Animal limits vary by lot size | - |
| Contact | Animal Care Facility — (619) 691-5123 | - |
| Chickens | - | Up to 10 (no roosters) |
| Density | - | 1 per 100 sq ft rear yard |
| Run Space | - | 10 sq ft per bird |
| Horses | - | Larger zones, 20K+ sq ft |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chula Vista FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Chula Vista?
Yes, with restrictions. The number of chickens allowed depends on your lot size and zoning district under CVMC Chapter 6.04. Poultry must be kept in enclosed structures or runs.
Are roosters allowed in Chula Vista?
While not expressly banned citywide, roosters that create excessive noise may be cited as a nuisance under CVMC Chapter 17.24. Check your specific zoning district for any additional restrictions.
Can I keep goats or other livestock in Chula Vista?
Livestock is generally permitted only on larger lots with appropriate agricultural or estate zoning. The specific requirements depend on your zoning district and lot size.
El Cajon FAQ
Can I keep chickens in El Cajon?
Yes. Up to 10 chickens (no roosters) in single-family zones. Density is 1 bird per 100 sq ft of unpaved rear yard with enclosed runs.
What other animals can I keep?
Two dogs and two cats per dwelling. Horses on 20,000+ sq ft lots in qualifying zones. Rabbits, geese, and ducks (up to 6) in larger-lot zones.
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