Chickens & Livestock: El Monte vs Lancaster
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between El Monte, CA and Lancaster, CA?
Lancaster has fewer restrictions than El Monte.
El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
El Monte contracts animal-control enforcement to LA County Department of Animal Care & Control, so LA County Code Title 10 governs poultry and livestock. Roosters are tightly capped, and any keeping of livestock requires the land to be zoned for it.
View full El Monte rules →Lancaster, CA
Los Angeles County
Lancaster may permit backyard chickens with limits on flock size and setbacks. Roosters typically banned. Livestock restrictions vary by zoning district.
View full Lancaster rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Monte | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Enforcement agency | LA County Dept of Animal Care & Control (contract) | - |
| Governing code | LA County Code Title 10 + El Monte Title 17 (zoning) | - |
| Roosters | Capped per LACC §10.38; license required above cap | Usually prohibited |
| Baby chicks as gifts/prizes | Prohibited under LACC §10.20 (under 3 months) | - |
| Livestock (cows, goats, pigs) | Not permitted in El Monte R-zones | - |
| Hens | - | Typically 4 to 6 allowed |
| Coop Setback | - | 20 to 40 feet from neighbors |
| Livestock | - | Agricultural zones only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Monte FAQ
Can I keep backyard hens in El Monte?
El Monte's residential zoning code does not list poultry as a permitted accessory use in standard R-zones, and LA County Code Title 10 (which El Monte enforces by contract) restricts fowl sales and rooster keeping. Residents should contact El Monte Planning at 626-580-2001 before adding hens.
Are roosters allowed?
LA County Code Chapter 10.38 limits roosters per parcel; any number above the cap requires a license from LA County Animal Care & Control. Crowing roosters that disturb neighbors can also be cited under El Monte's noise nuisance provisions.
Who handles complaints about livestock in El Monte?
Call El Monte Animal Control at 626-580-2081 during business hours. After-hours and emergency calls (vicious animals, injured strays) go to LA County DACC.
Lancaster FAQ
Can I keep chickens?
Many cities allow 4 to 6 hens with proper coop setbacks. Roosters are typically prohibited. Check Lancaster municipal code.
What about goats?
Usually restricted to agricultural or rural residential zones with minimum lot sizes.
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