Chickens & Livestock: Los Angeles vs Santa Monica
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Los Angeles and Santa Monica 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 Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Backyard chickens are allowed in Santa Monica with restrictions. Roosters are prohibited in residential areas due to noise. Livestock keeping is restricted by zoning district. The city enforces sanitary maintenance standards.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Hens | Allowed in most residential zones | Allowed with restrictions |
| Roosters | Prohibited in R1 zones | Prohibited in residential zones |
| Livestock | A1/A2 zones, 17,500+ sq ft lots | Zoning-dependent |
| Code Section | LAMC 53.00, 12.05 | - |
| Maintenance | - | Sanitary conditions required |
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 Monica FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica does not have specific provisions permitting chickens in residential zones. Contact the Planning Department for current zoning interpretation.
Can I keep bees in Santa Monica?
Yes. Up to 2 hives on single-family residential property, registered with Animal Control, with siting requirements per SMMC Chapter 4.04.
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