Chickens & Livestock: Garden Grove vs Midway City
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Garden Grove, CA and Midway City, CA?
Midway City 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 →Midway City, CA
Orange County
Unincorporated Orange County allows up to 4 hens on qualifying residential properties with a $57 Residential Backyard Chicken Permit effective November 2021. Roosters and other poultry are prohibited. Livestock is permitted separately on agriculturally zoned properties.
View full Midway City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Garden Grove | Midway City |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Hen Limit | - | 4 hens maximum (residential) |
| Roosters | - | Prohibited in residential |
| Permit Fee | - | $57 |
| Coop Setback | - | 30 feet from neighbor home |
| Effective Date | - | November 1, 2021 |
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.
Midway City FAQ
Can I keep chickens in unincorporated Orange County?
Yes, up to 4 hens with a $57 Residential Backyard Chicken Permit on qualifying single-family residential properties. Roosters, ducks, geese, turkeys, and other poultry are not allowed under the residential permit.
What are the requirements for a chicken coop in unincorporated OC?
Coops must be located at least 30 feet from any house on an adjacent property. You need a site plan and proof of training. The permit costs $57 and applies only to owner-occupied properties with qualifying zoning.
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