Chickens & Livestock: El Cajon vs Vista
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between El Cajon, CA and Vista, CA?
Vista has fewer restrictions than El Cajon.
El Cajon, CA
San Diego County
El Cajon allows up to 10 chickens in single-family residential zones at 1 per 100 sq ft of unpaved rear yard. No roosters. Chickens must be in fully enclosed runs with 10 sq ft per bird. Other livestock restricted to larger-lot zones.
View full El Cajon rules →Vista, CA
San Diego County
Vista allows chickens and limited livestock on residential lots reflecting its agricultural heritage. E-1 Estates allows one horse per half-acre. R-1 allows horses on 1+ acre lots. Roosters restricted in standard residential zones.
View full Vista rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cajon | Vista |
|---|---|---|
| Chickens | Up to 10 (no roosters) | Allowed on residential lots |
| Density | 1 per 100 sq ft rear yard | - |
| Run Space | 10 sq ft per bird | - |
| Horses | Larger zones, 20K+ sq ft | - |
| E-1 Zone | - | 1 horse per 0.5 acre |
| R-1 Zone | - | Horse on 1+ acre |
| Roosters | - | Restricted in residential |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Cajon FAQ
Can I keep chickens in El Cajon?
Yes. Up to 10 chickens (no roosters) in single-family zones. Density is 1 bird per 100 sq ft of unpaved rear yard with enclosed runs.
What other animals can I keep?
Two dogs and two cats per dwelling. Horses on 20,000+ sq ft lots in qualifying zones. Rabbits, geese, and ducks (up to 6) in larger-lot zones.
Vista FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Vista?
Yes. Vista allows hens on most residential lots with coop setback requirements. Roosters are restricted in standard residential zones.
Can I keep a horse in Vista?
In E-1 zones: one horse per half-acre. In R-1 zones: on lots of one acre or more. Check your zoning designation.
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