Livestock: Costa Mesa vs Midway City
How do 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 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 →Midway City, CA
Orange County
Livestock is permitted on qualifying parcels in unincorporated Orange County depending on zoning district. Agricultural and equestrian zones allow horses, goats, sheep, and other livestock with minimum lot size requirements. Canyon communities have a strong equestrian tradition.
View full Midway City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Midway City |
|---|---|---|
| Most Residential Zones | Livestock prohibited | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited in residential zones | - |
| Hens | May be limited in some zones | - |
| OC Animal Care | (714) 935-6848 | (714) 935-6848 |
| Zoning Verification | Development Services (714) 754-5245 | - |
| Qualifying Zones | - | A1, equestrian-designated |
| Min Lot Size | - | Typically 20,000+ sq ft |
| Canyon Areas | - | Strong equestrian tradition |
| OC Planning | - | (714) 667-8888 |
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.
Midway City FAQ
Can I keep horses in unincorporated Orange County?
Yes, on properties in agricultural or equestrian-designated zones with adequate lot size. Trabuco Canyon, Silverado Canyon, and Orange Park Acres have strong equestrian communities.
What about goats or sheep?
Small livestock may be permitted depending on zoning designation and lot size. Contact OC Planning at (714) 667-8888 to confirm your parcel's livestock allowances.
Are roosters allowed?
Roosters may be restricted or prohibited even in agricultural zones due to noise nuisance concerns. Check with Code Enforcement at (714) 667-8843.
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