Chickens & Livestock: Moorpark vs Ojai
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Moorpark, CA and Ojai, CA?
Moorpark and Ojai have similar restriction levels.
Moorpark, CA
Ventura County
Moorpark allows chickens and livestock only in Rural (R-E) and Agricultural (A-E, O-S) zones under MMC Section 17.28.030. A 20,000 sq ft lot in R-E zone allows 2 equines, 20 chickens/ducks, 4 roosters, 10 small animals, and 6 sheep. Enclosures must be at least 15 feet from property lines. Standard residential zones do not permit livestock.
View full Moorpark rules →Ojai, CA
Ventura County
Ojai allows backyard chickens on residential lots with setback requirements under OMC zoning provisions. Roosters may be restricted. Livestock keeping depends on zoning — agricultural and rural residential zones allow larger animals; standard residential zones have limitations.
View full Ojai rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Moorpark | Ojai |
|---|---|---|
| Permitted Zones | R-E, A-E, O-S zones only | - |
| Chickens (R-E 20k sf) | Up to 20 hens | - |
| Roosters | Up to 4 in R-E zone | Restricted in residential zones |
| Setback | 15 feet from property line | - |
| Code Section | MMC §17.28.030 | - |
| Hens Allowed | - | Up to 6 on standard lots |
| Coop Setback | - | 20 feet from neighboring dwelling |
| Livestock | - | Allowed in AG/RE zones |
| Animal Services | - | (805) 388-4341 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Moorpark FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Moorpark?
Only if your property is in a Rural (R-E) or Agricultural zone. Standard residential zones do not permit chickens. A 20,000 sq ft R-E lot allows up to 20 chickens or ducks under §17.28.030.
Are roosters allowed in Moorpark?
Yes, in permitted zones. A 20,000 sq ft R-E lot allows up to 4 roosters or guinea fowl. However, roosters creating a noise disturbance also violate the noise ordinance under §17.53.070(D).
Can I keep horses on my Moorpark property?
Yes, if zoned R-E, A-E, or O-S. A 20,000 sq ft R-E lot allows 2 equine animals. Properties in Specific Plan zones only permit horses where specifically designated for equestrian use.
Ojai FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Ojai?
Yes. Hens are allowed on residential lots with coops set back at least 20 feet from neighboring dwellings. Up to 6 hens on standard lots.
Are roosters allowed?
Roosters are restricted in standard residential zones due to noise concerns. They may be permitted in agricultural zones.
Can I have goats?
In agricultural and rural residential zones, yes. Standard residential zones may allow miniature goats with proper setbacks. Check your zoning with Community Development.
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