Chickens & Livestock: Newport Beach vs Santa Ana
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Newport Beach, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Santa Ana has fewer restrictions than Newport Beach.
Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach restricts the keeping of chickens and livestock in most residential zoning districts. Chickens, roosters, and other poultry are generally prohibited in standard residential zones, with limited allowances in agricultural or large-lot residential areas.
View full Newport Beach 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 | Newport Beach | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Residential | Chickens/livestock generally prohibited | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited in all residential zones | Prohibited on residential premises |
| Nuisance | Noise, odor, vermin must be controlled | - |
| OC Animal Care | (714) 935-6848 | - |
| Code Enforcement | (949) 644-3215 | - |
| 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.
Newport Beach FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Newport Beach?
In most standard residential zoning districts, chickens and other poultry are prohibited. Limited poultry keeping may be allowed in areas zoned for agricultural or equestrian uses. Contact Community Development at (949) 644-3200 to verify what is allowed on your property.
Are roosters allowed anywhere in Newport Beach?
Roosters are prohibited in all residential areas of Newport Beach due to the noise they produce. This applies even in zones where hens may be permitted.
Who handles animal complaints in Newport Beach?
Newport Beach contracts with the Orange County Animal Care facility for animal control services. Contact OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 for animal complaints, or Newport Beach Code Enforcement at (949) 644-3215 for zoning violations.
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.
Compare other topics
See how Newport Beach and Santa Ana compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool