Chickens & Livestock: Moorpark vs Oxnard
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Moorpark, CA and Oxnard, CA?
Moorpark and Oxnard 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 →Oxnard, CA
Ventura County
Oxnard allows limited poultry keeping in residential zones with restrictions on flock size, coop setbacks, and rooster prohibitions. Livestock such as goats, pigs, and cattle are generally restricted to agricultural zones or properties meeting minimum lot size requirements.
View full Oxnard rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Moorpark | Oxnard |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Prohibited in residential zones |
| Setback | 15 feet from property line | - |
| Code Section | MMC §17.28.030 | - |
| Hens Allowed | - | Yes, with limits (typically 5-6) |
| Coop Setback | - | 20-35 ft from neighbor dwellings |
| 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.
Oxnard FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Oxnard?
Yes, hens are allowed in most residential zones with limits on flock size and coop setback requirements. Roosters are generally prohibited due to noise. Check your specific zoning with Community Development.
Can I keep goats in Oxnard?
Goats and other livestock generally require agricultural zoning or large lots (20,000+ square feet). Standard residential lots in urban areas are not permitted for livestock keeping.
Who handles animal complaints in Oxnard?
Ventura County Animal Services at (805) 388-4341 handles animal welfare and nuisance complaints in Oxnard. Code Enforcement handles zoning violations for prohibited animals.
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