Chickens & Livestock: Mountain View vs Sunnyvale
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Mountain View and Sunnyvale have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Mountain View allows a limited number of hens in residential zones with setback requirements; roosters are prohibited and larger livestock is generally not allowed on standard lots.
View full Mountain View rules →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale allows up to 6 hens on lots under 10,000 sq ft with no roosters. Coops must be set back at least 25 feet from neighboring dwellings under the Municipal Code animal provisions.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Hens allowed | Up to 4 typically | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited | Prohibited |
| Coop setback | 20 feet from dwellings | - |
| Large livestock | Generally prohibited | - |
| Enforcement | SVACA | - |
| Hen limit | - | 6 on standard lots |
| Coop setback from dwellings | - | 25 feet |
| Side/rear setback | - | 5 feet |
| Larger livestock | - | Not allowed residential |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Can I have a rooster in Mountain View?
No. Roosters are prohibited in Mountain View residential zones due to noise concerns.
Do I need a permit for four hens?
No permit is required, but coop location, setbacks, and sanitation must comply with the code.
Sunnyvale FAQ
Do I need a permit for 4 backyard hens?
No permit is required for small flocks within the allowed limits and setbacks, though CDFA Premises ID registration is recommended for disease tracking.
Can I keep a rooster if my neighbors agree?
No. The rooster ban applies citywide regardless of neighbor consent, because crowing noise violates the quiet hours and nuisance provisions.
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