Livestock: Costa Mesa vs Newport Beach
How do 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 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 →Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach prohibits keeping livestock including horses, goats, sheep, and pigs in most residential zoning districts. Livestock is only permitted on properties zoned for agricultural or equestrian uses, which are extremely limited within city limits.
View full Newport Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Newport Beach |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Standard Residential | - | Livestock prohibited |
| Horses | - | Only in equestrian-zoned areas |
| Goats/Sheep | - | Prohibited in most zones |
| CUP Option | - | May require zoning change |
| Code Enforcement | - | (949) 644-3215 |
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.
Newport Beach FAQ
Can I keep a goat in Newport Beach?
No, goats and other livestock are prohibited in standard residential zoning districts in Newport Beach. Livestock is only permitted on the very limited properties with agricultural or equestrian zoning designations.
Are horses allowed in Newport Beach?
Horses are only allowed on properties with equestrian or agricultural zoning designations, which are extremely limited within city limits. Most residential properties do not qualify. Contact Community Development at (949) 644-3200 to check your zoning.
Can I apply for a permit to keep livestock on my Newport Beach property?
You would likely need to apply for a zoning change or conditional use permit, which requires Planning Commission review and public hearings. This is a significant process with no guarantee of approval. Contact Community Development at (949) 644-3200.
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