Chickens & Livestock: Irvine vs Newport Beach
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Irvine, CA and Newport Beach, CA?
Irvine has fewer restrictions than Newport Beach.
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 →Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach restricts the keeping of chickens and livestock in most residential zoning districts. Chickens, roosters, and other poultry are generally prohibited in standard residential zones, with limited allowances in agricultural or large-lot residential areas.
View full Newport Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Irvine | Newport Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Max Hens | 6 (with permit) | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited | Prohibited in all residential zones |
| Dwelling Setback | 20 ft from neighboring structure | - |
| Property Line Setback | 5 ft | - |
| Code Section | IMC Title 4, Div. 5, Ch. 9 | - |
| Standard Residential | - | Chickens/livestock generally prohibited |
| Nuisance | - | Noise, odor, vermin must be controlled |
| OC Animal Care | - | (714) 935-6848 |
| Code Enforcement | - | (949) 644-3215 |
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.
Newport Beach FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Newport Beach?
In most standard residential zoning districts, chickens and other poultry are prohibited. Limited poultry keeping may be allowed in areas zoned for agricultural or equestrian uses. Contact Community Development at (949) 644-3200 to verify what is allowed on your property.
Are roosters allowed anywhere in Newport Beach?
Roosters are prohibited in all residential areas of Newport Beach due to the noise they produce. This applies even in zones where hens may be permitted.
Who handles animal complaints in Newport Beach?
Newport Beach contracts with the Orange County Animal Care facility for animal control services. Contact OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 for animal complaints, or Newport Beach Code Enforcement at (949) 644-3215 for zoning violations.
Compare other topics
See how Irvine and Newport Beach 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