Chickens & Livestock: Garden Grove vs Irvine
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Garden Grove, CA and Irvine, CA?
Irvine has fewer restrictions than Garden Grove.
Garden Grove, CA
Orange County
Garden Grove allows a maximum of 4 fowl per residential property but prohibits all roosters and livestock (cattle, sheep, swine, equine, bovine) within city limits. Fowl must be kept in enclosed pens at least 25 feet from adjacent dwellings and property lines.
View full Garden Grove 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 | Garden Grove | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Hens Allowed | Maximum 4 (no roosters) | - |
| Livestock | Prohibited citywide | - |
| Setback | 25 ft from dwellings/property lines | - |
| Enclosure | Fully enclosed pen required | - |
| Contact | Animal Care — (714) 741-5565 | - |
| Max Hens | - | 6 (with permit) |
| Roosters | - | Prohibited |
| 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.
Garden Grove FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Garden Grove?
Yes, up to 4 hens. Roosters are prohibited. Hens must be kept in a fully enclosed pen at least 25 feet from all adjacent dwelling units and property lines.
Are goats or other livestock allowed?
No. All livestock including cattle, sheep, swine, and equine animals are prohibited within Garden Grove city limits.
What is the setback requirement for chicken coops?
All poultry enclosures must be at least 25 feet from adjacent dwelling units and all property lines.
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.
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