Chickens & Livestock: Los Angeles vs Santa Clarita
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Clarita, CA?
Los Angeles and Santa Clarita have similar restriction levels.
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 →Santa Clarita, CA
Los Angeles County
Chickens and small animals allowed based on lot size per SCMC 17.62. Roosters restricted to lots over 1 acre. No permit needed but must be properly housed and enclosed.
View full Santa Clarita rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Santa Clarita |
|---|---|---|
| Hens | Allowed in most residential zones | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited in R1 zones | Only on lots >1 acre (1 per acre) |
| Livestock | A1/A2 zones, 17,500+ sq ft lots | - |
| Code Section | LAMC 53.00, 12.05 | - |
| Chickens | - | Allowed based on lot size |
| Permit | - | Not required |
| Housing | - | Must be caged/enclosed |
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.
Santa Clarita FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Santa Clarita?
Yes. Hens are permitted without a permit, but the number is limited by lot size. Roosters may be restricted. Check SCMC Chapter 17.62 for your specific zone and lot size limits.
Can I keep goats in Santa Clarita?
Small livestock including goats may be kept in appropriate zones with proper setbacks and space. Check SCMC 17.62 for specific requirements and any permit needs.
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