Chickens & Livestock: Irvine vs Midway City
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Irvine, CA and Midway City, CA?
Irvine and Midway City have similar restriction levels.
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 →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 | Irvine | Midway City |
|---|---|---|
| Max Hens | 6 (with permit) | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited | Prohibited in residential |
| Dwelling Setback | 20 ft from neighboring structure | - |
| Property Line Setback | 5 ft | - |
| Code Section | IMC Title 4, Div. 5, Ch. 9 | - |
| Hen Limit | - | 4 hens maximum (residential) |
| Permit Fee | - | $57 |
| Coop Setback | - | 30 feet from neighbor home |
| Effective Date | - | November 1, 2021 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
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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