Mission Viejo vs Santa Ana
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Mission Viejo, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Mission Viejo and Santa Ana have similar restriction levels.
Mission Viejo, CA
Orange County
Unincorporated Orange County allows up to 4 hens on qualifying residential properties with a $57 Residential Backyard Chicken Permit effective November 2021. Roosters and other poultry are prohibited. Livestock is permitted separately on agriculturally zoned properties.
View full Mission Viejo rules →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana allows up to four fowl (hens only, no roosters) per residential property under SAMC Chapter 5 (Animals). Roosters are strictly prohibited on any residential premises. Fowl must be kept at specified distances from neighboring dwellings.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mission Viejo | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Hen Limit | 4 hens maximum (residential) | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited in residential | Prohibited on residential premises |
| Permit Fee | $57 | - |
| Coop Setback | 30 feet from neighbor home | - |
| Effective Date | November 1, 2021 | - |
| Max Hens Allowed | - | 4 (without special permit) |
| Setback (4 or fewer) | - | 30 ft from neighboring dwelling |
| Setback (over 4) | - | 100 ft from neighboring dwelling |
| Code Section | - | SAMC Chapter 5, §5-6.5 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mission Viejo FAQ
Can I keep chickens in unincorporated Orange County?
Yes, up to 4 hens with a $57 Residential Backyard Chicken Permit on qualifying single-family residential properties. Roosters, ducks, geese, turkeys, and other poultry are not allowed under the residential permit.
What are the requirements for a chicken coop in unincorporated OC?
Coops must be located at least 30 feet from any house on an adjacent property. You need a site plan and proof of training. The permit costs $57 and applies only to owner-occupied properties with qualifying zoning.
Santa Ana FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Santa Ana?
Yes. You may keep up to four hens (no roosters) on residential property under SAMC Chapter 5. They must be kept at least 30 feet from neighboring dwellings.
Are roosters allowed in Santa Ana?
No. SAMC Section 5-6.5 prohibits roosters on any premises used for residential purposes within the City of Santa Ana.
Can I keep more than four chickens?
Only with a special permit. Additional fowl must be kept at least 100 feet from any neighboring dwelling.
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