Chickens & Livestock: Downey vs Los Angeles
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Downey, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Downey and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Downey allows up to 5 chickens, rabbits, or pigeons in any combination per lot (DMC 9514.02). Roosters are strictly prohibited. Up to 100 racing/homing pigeons allowed in R-1 zones with a CUP.
View full Downey rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC 53.00 and zoning regulations allow keeping chickens in most residential zones. Roosters are prohibited in single-family residential zones. A maximum of one rooster is allowed in agricultural zones. Livestock such as horses and goats are generally restricted to lots of 17,500+ sq ft in A1/A2 zones. The number of allowed animals varies by lot size and zone.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Limit | 5 total (chickens/rabbits/pigeons) | - |
| Roosters | Strictly prohibited | Prohibited in R1 zones |
| Racing Pigeons | Up to 100 with CUP in R-1 | - |
| Sanitation | Clean conditions required | - |
| Hens | - | Allowed in most residential zones |
| Livestock | - | A1/A2 zones, 17,500+ sq ft lots |
| Code Section | - | LAMC 53.00, 12.05 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downey FAQ
Can I keep chickens?
Many cities allow 4 to 6 hens with proper coop setbacks. Roosters are typically prohibited. Check Downey municipal code.
What about goats?
Usually restricted to agricultural or rural residential zones with minimum lot sizes.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I keep chickens in my backyard in LA?
Yes, in RA, RE, RS, R1, RU, and RZ zones for noncommercial purposes. No permit is required, and there is no specified maximum number.
Are roosters legal in Los Angeles?
Yes. The LAMC does not prohibit roosters, though Animal Services may intervene if noise constitutes a nuisance.
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