Livestock: Costa Mesa vs Fullerton
How do livestock rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Fullerton, CA?
Fullerton has fewer restrictions than Costa Mesa.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa restricts or prohibits keeping livestock such as goats, sheep, horses, and pigs on most residential properties. Livestock keeping is generally limited to properties in agricultural or equestrian zoning districts, which are very limited in the city.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Fullerton's Zoning Ordinance restricts keeping livestock such as horses, goats, sheep, pigs, and cattle to properties with agricultural or equestrian-overlay zoning that meet minimum lot-size requirements. Standard residential zones (R-1, R-2, R-3) do not permit large livestock. Properties in qualifying zones in north Fullerton near the hills may keep animals subject to enclosure setbacks, manure management, and nuisance standards.
View full Fullerton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Fullerton |
|---|---|---|
| Most Residential Zones | Livestock prohibited | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited in residential zones | - |
| Hens | May be limited in some zones | - |
| OC Animal Care | (714) 935-6848 | - |
| Zoning Verification | Development Services (714) 754-5245 | Community Development (714) 738-6884 |
| Permitted Zones | - | Agricultural and equestrian-overlay zones only |
| Standard Residential | - | Livestock not permitted in R-1, R-2, R-3 |
| Manure Management | - | Regular removal required to prevent odor and flies |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Can I keep goats in Costa Mesa?
Generally no. Most residential zones in Costa Mesa prohibit livestock including goats. Check your specific zoning with Development Services at (714) 754-5245.
Are chickens allowed in Costa Mesa?
Hens may be permitted in limited numbers in certain residential zones with specific setback and enclosure requirements. Roosters are typically prohibited.
Can I have a horse on my property in Costa Mesa?
Horses are only permitted in agricultural or equestrian-designated zones, which are extremely limited in Costa Mesa. Verify your zoning before acquiring horses.
Fullerton FAQ
Can I keep goats on my residential property in Fullerton?
In most cases, no. Standard residential zones (R-1, R-2, R-3) do not permit goats or other large livestock. Only properties with agricultural or equestrian-overlay zoning in north Fullerton may qualify. Contact Community Development at (714) 738-6884 to verify your parcel's zoning.
Can I keep a horse in Fullerton?
Horses are permitted only on properties with equestrian-overlay or agricultural zoning that meet minimum lot-size requirements. These parcels are primarily found in the Fullerton hills area. You must provide adequate shelter, fencing, and manure management.
What happens if I keep livestock in a zone where it's not allowed?
The Code Enforcement Division will issue a notice of violation requiring removal of the animals. Failure to comply results in administrative citations starting at $100, escalating to $500 for repeat violations. Ongoing nuisance conditions may lead to abatement proceedings.
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