Chickens & Livestock: El Monte vs Santa Clarita
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between El Monte, CA and Santa Clarita, CA?
Santa Clarita 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 →Santa Clarita, CA
Los Angeles County
Chickens and small animals allowed based on lot size per SCMC 17.62. Roosters restricted to lots over 1 acre. No permit needed but must be properly housed and enclosed.
View full Santa Clarita rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Monte | Santa Clarita |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Only on lots >1 acre (1 per acre) |
| Baby chicks as gifts/prizes | Prohibited under LACC §10.20 (under 3 months) | - |
| Livestock (cows, goats, pigs) | Not permitted in El Monte R-zones | - |
| Chickens | - | Allowed based on lot size |
| Permit | - | Not required |
| Housing | - | Must be caged/enclosed |
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.
Santa Clarita FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Santa Clarita?
Yes. Hens are permitted without a permit, but the number is limited by lot size. Roosters may be restricted. Check SCMC Chapter 17.62 for your specific zone and lot size limits.
Can I keep goats in Santa Clarita?
Small livestock including goats may be kept in appropriate zones with proper setbacks and space. Check SCMC 17.62 for specific requirements and any permit needs.
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