Chickens & Livestock: Los Angeles vs New York
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and New York, NY?
Los Angeles has fewer restrictions than New York.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC 53.00 and zoning regulations allow keeping chickens in most residential zones. Roosters are prohibited in single-family residential zones. A maximum of one rooster is allowed in agricultural zones. Livestock such as horses and goats are generally restricted to lots of 17,500+ sq ft in A1/A2 zones. The number of allowed animals varies by lot size and zone.
View full Los Angeles rules →New York, NY
New York County
Manhattan allows hens in NYC but roosters are banned. Coops must meet health standards. Livestock prohibited in most residential zones. NYC Health Code governs.
View full New York rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Hens | Allowed in most residential zones | Allowed (no firm limit) |
| Roosters | Prohibited in R1 zones | Banned |
| Livestock | A1/A2 zones, 17,500+ sq ft lots | Prohibited in residential |
| Code Section | LAMC 53.00, 12.05 | - |
| Law | - | NYC Health Code |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I keep chickens in my backyard in LA?
Yes, in RA, RE, RS, R1, RU, and RZ zones for noncommercial purposes. No permit is required, and there is no specified maximum number.
Are roosters legal in Los Angeles?
Yes. The LAMC does not prohibit roosters, though Animal Services may intervene if noise constitutes a nuisance.
New York FAQ
Can I keep chickens?
Hens are allowed in NYC. Roosters are banned. Coops must meet health standards. No firm limit on hens.
What about goats or other livestock?
Livestock prohibited in most NYC residential zones. Community gardens sometimes receive special approval.
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