Chickens & Livestock: Fullerton vs Santa Ana
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Fullerton and Santa Ana 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 →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana allows up to four fowl (hens only, no roosters) per residential property under SAMC Chapter 5 (Animals). Roosters are strictly prohibited on any residential premises. Fowl must be kept at specified distances from neighboring dwellings.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Hens | Allowed in residential zones (limits apply) | - |
| Roosters | Generally prohibited in residential | Prohibited on residential premises |
| Coop Location | Rear yard with setbacks | - |
| Nuisance | No excessive noise or odor | - |
| OC Animal Care | (714) 935-6848 | - |
| Max Hens Allowed | - | 4 (without special permit) |
| Setback (4 or fewer) | - | 30 ft from neighboring dwelling |
| Setback (over 4) | - | 100 ft from neighboring dwelling |
| Code Section | - | SAMC Chapter 5, §5-6.5 |
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.
Santa Ana FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Santa Ana?
Yes. You may keep up to four hens (no roosters) on residential property under SAMC Chapter 5. They must be kept at least 30 feet from neighboring dwellings.
Are roosters allowed in Santa Ana?
No. SAMC Section 5-6.5 prohibits roosters on any premises used for residential purposes within the City of Santa Ana.
Can I keep more than four chickens?
Only with a special permit. Additional fowl must be kept at least 100 feet from any neighboring dwelling.
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