Chickens & Livestock: Moorpark vs Santa Paula
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Moorpark, CA and Santa Paula, CA?
Santa Paula has fewer restrictions than Moorpark.
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 →Santa Paula, CA
Ventura County
Santa Paula allows chickens and small livestock on residential lots with sufficient acreage. Standard residential lots may keep up to 6 hens (no roosters) without a permit. Larger lots and agricultural-zoned parcels allow additional poultry and livestock including goats, rabbits, and ducks.
View full Santa Paula rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Moorpark | Santa Paula |
|---|---|---|
| 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 (R-1) | - | Up to 6 without permit |
| Coop Setback | - | 20 feet from neighboring dwelling |
| Horses | - | 20,000+ sq ft lot required |
| Agricultural Zones | - | Broader livestock allowed |
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.
Santa Paula FAQ
Can I have chickens in Santa Paula?
Yes, up to 6 hens are allowed on standard residential lots without a permit. No roosters. Coops must be 20 feet from neighboring dwellings.
Can I have goats in Santa Paula?
Goats require a lot of 20,000+ square feet or agricultural zoning. Standard residential lots do not allow goats. Contact Community Development at (805) 933-4214.
What about horses?
Horses require a minimum 20,000 sq ft lot. Many Santa Paula properties with agricultural heritage may already have equestrian use rights.
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