Chickens & Livestock: Costa Mesa vs Newport Beach
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Newport Beach, CA?
Costa Mesa and Newport Beach have similar restriction levels.
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 →Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach restricts the keeping of chickens and livestock in most residential zoning districts. Chickens, roosters, and other poultry are generally prohibited in standard residential zones, with limited allowances in agricultural or large-lot residential areas.
View full Newport Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Newport Beach |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Standard Residential | - | Chickens/livestock generally prohibited |
| Roosters | - | Prohibited in all residential zones |
| Nuisance | - | Noise, odor, vermin must be controlled |
| OC Animal Care | - | (714) 935-6848 |
| Code Enforcement | - | (949) 644-3215 |
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.
Newport Beach FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Newport Beach?
In most standard residential zoning districts, chickens and other poultry are prohibited. Limited poultry keeping may be allowed in areas zoned for agricultural or equestrian uses. Contact Community Development at (949) 644-3200 to verify what is allowed on your property.
Are roosters allowed anywhere in Newport Beach?
Roosters are prohibited in all residential areas of Newport Beach due to the noise they produce. This applies even in zones where hens may be permitted.
Who handles animal complaints in Newport Beach?
Newport Beach contracts with the Orange County Animal Care facility for animal control services. Contact OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 for animal complaints, or Newport Beach Code Enforcement at (949) 644-3215 for zoning violations.
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