Chickens & Livestock: Oakland vs San Leandro
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Oakland, CA and San Leandro, CA?
Oakland and San Leandro have similar restriction levels.
Oakland, CA
Alameda County
Oakland allows up to 4 hens (no roosters) per residential lot without a permit. Larger flocks, roosters, goats, and other livestock require a Conditional Use Permit. Coops must be at least 20 feet from any residence and 5 feet from property lines.
View full Oakland rules →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
Backyard hens allowed in San Leandro: up to 6 hens on single-family lots, no roosters, coop setback 10 feet from dwellings and property lines.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Oakland | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| Hens Allowed | Up to 4, no permit | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited in residential | Prohibited |
| Coop Setback | 20 ft from dwellings, 5 ft lot line | - |
| Bees | Allowed — F&A Code §29001 registration | - |
| Larger Livestock | CUP required | - |
| Hen limit | - | 6 hens |
| Coop setback | - | 10 feet |
| Sanitation | - | Required |
| Egg sales | - | Cottage food rules |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Oakland FAQ
Can I keep backyard chickens in Oakland?
Yes. You can keep up to 4 hens (no roosters) without a permit, provided the coop is 20 feet from any dwelling and 5 feet from property lines.
Are goats allowed in Oakland backyards?
Not as a matter of right in residential zones. Dwarf or miniature goats may be kept with a Conditional Use Permit depending on zoning and lot size.
San Leandro FAQ
Who enforces this in San Leandro?
San Leandro code enforcement at (510) 577-3394 handles most complaints. Alameda County agencies handle regional issues.
Who enforces this in San Leandro?
San Leandro code enforcement at (510) 577-3394 handles most complaints. Alameda County agencies handle regional issues.
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