Chickens & Livestock: Costa Mesa vs Midway City
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Midway City, CA?
Midway City has fewer restrictions than Costa Mesa.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa prohibits livestock (including chickens) unless a special animal permit is approved by the chief of police. Keeping more than 5 domesticated animals also requires a permit. The permit fee is $15.49 non-refundable.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Midway City, CA
Orange County
Unincorporated Orange County allows up to 4 hens on qualifying residential properties with a $57 Residential Backyard Chicken Permit effective November 2021. Roosters and other poultry are prohibited. Livestock is permitted separately on agriculturally zoned properties.
View full Midway City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Midway City |
|---|---|---|
| Livestock/Chickens | Special permit required | - |
| Permit Authority | Chief of police discretion | - |
| Application Fee | $15.49 non-refundable | - |
| Pet Limit | 5 domesticated without permit | - |
| Contact | Animal Control — (714) 754-5311 | - |
| Hen Limit | - | 4 hens maximum (residential) |
| Roosters | - | Prohibited in residential |
| Permit Fee | - | $57 |
| Coop Setback | - | 30 feet from neighbor home |
| Effective Date | - | November 1, 2021 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Costa Mesa?
Only with a special animal permit approved by the chief of police. Chickens are classified as livestock and require the permit, which costs $15.49 to apply.
How many pets can I have without a permit?
Up to 5 domesticated animals without a special permit. More than 5 domesticated animals, or any livestock, requires a permit.
How do I apply for an animal permit?
Contact Costa Mesa Animal Control at (714) 754-5311. The application fee is $15.49 (non-refundable) with an annual permit fee due upon approval.
Midway City FAQ
Can I keep chickens in unincorporated Orange County?
Yes, up to 4 hens with a $57 Residential Backyard Chicken Permit on qualifying single-family residential properties. Roosters, ducks, geese, turkeys, and other poultry are not allowed under the residential permit.
What are the requirements for a chicken coop in unincorporated OC?
Coops must be located at least 30 feet from any house on an adjacent property. You need a site plan and proof of training. The permit costs $57 and applies only to owner-occupied properties with qualifying zoning.
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