Chickens & Livestock: Martinez vs Walnut Creek
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Martinez, CA and Walnut Creek, CA?
Martinez and Walnut Creek have similar restriction levels.
Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Martinez allows up to six hens on residential lots in most single-family zones, with no roosters permitted. Coops must be set back at least 10 feet from property lines and 25 feet from neighboring dwellings, maintained in sanitary condition, and provide adequate shelter. Slaughter on residential properties is prohibited. No permit is required for compliant small-flock keeping.
View full Martinez rules →Walnut Creek, CA
Contra Costa County
Walnut Creek permits backyard chickens in most residential zones with typical limits of 4-6 hens per lot, coops set back at least 10-15 feet from property lines and 25 feet from neighboring dwellings, and roosters are prohibited in standard single-family zones.
View full Walnut Creek rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Martinez | Walnut Creek |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Typical max hens | - | 4-6 per residential lot |
| Roosters | - | Prohibited in standard residential |
| Coop setback | - | 10-15 ft property line |
| Coop setback from dwellings | - | ~25 ft neighboring homes |
| Slaughtering | - | Prohibited in residential zones |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Martinez FAQ
Walnut Creek FAQ
Can I have chickens in my Walnut Creek backyard?
Yes, most residential zones allow 4-6 hens as an accessory use. You must comply with coop setbacks, keep the enclosure clean and rodent-resistant, and cannot keep roosters in standard residential zones.
Can I sell eggs from my backyard hens?
Small-volume egg sales from the home are permitted under California's Cottage Food Operation rules (AB 1616) with registration through the county. Commercial-scale sales require additional licensing.
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