Chickens & Livestock: Fullerton vs Irvine
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Irvine, CA?
Fullerton and Irvine have similar restriction levels.
Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Fullerton allows keeping chickens and certain small animals on residential properties subject to zoning restrictions under Municipal Code Chapter 15.50. The number of animals permitted depends on the zoning district and lot size. Roosters are generally prohibited in residential zones due to noise.
View full Fullerton rules →Irvine, CA
Orange County
Irvine allows up to 6 hens with a permit under IMC Title 4, Division 5, Chapter 9 (Livestock and Poultry). Roosters are prohibited. Hens must be kept in proper enclosures with a 20-foot setback from neighboring structures and a 5-foot setback from property lines.
View full Irvine rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Hens | Allowed in residential zones (limits apply) | - |
| Roosters | Generally prohibited in residential | Prohibited |
| Coop Location | Rear yard with setbacks | - |
| Nuisance | No excessive noise or odor | - |
| OC Animal Care | (714) 935-6848 | - |
| Max Hens | - | 6 (with permit) |
| Dwelling Setback | - | 20 ft from neighboring structure |
| Property Line Setback | - | 5 ft |
| Code Section | - | IMC Title 4, Div. 5, Ch. 9 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fullerton FAQ
Can I keep chickens in my backyard in Fullerton?
Yes, hens are generally allowed in Fullerton residential zones subject to limits on the number based on your lot size and zoning district. Roosters are prohibited in most residential zones. Coops must be in the rear yard.
How many chickens can I have in Fullerton?
The number depends on your zoning district and lot size. Contact Community Development at (714) 738-6837 for the specific allowance for your property.
Can I keep goats in Fullerton?
Goats and other larger livestock are generally only permitted on properties in agricultural or estate residential zones with sufficient lot size, typically 20,000 square feet or more. Standard residential lots typically cannot keep goats.
Irvine FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Irvine?
Yes, up to 6 hens with a residential animal permit. Roosters are prohibited. Coops must be at least 20 feet from neighboring dwellings and 5 feet from property lines.
How do I get a chicken permit in Irvine?
Apply for a residential animal permit through the City of Irvine. The application requires neighbor notification and review by city staff.
Compare other topics
See how Fullerton and Irvine compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool