Chickens & Livestock: Oxnard vs Santa Paula
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Oxnard, CA and Santa Paula, CA?
Santa Paula has fewer restrictions than Oxnard.
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 →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 | Oxnard | Santa Paula |
|---|---|---|
| Hens Allowed | Yes, with limits (typically 5-6) | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited in residential zones | Prohibited in residential zones |
| Coop Setback | 20-35 ft from neighbor dwellings | 20 feet from neighboring dwelling |
| Animal Services | (805) 388-4341 | - |
| Hens (R-1) | - | Up to 6 without permit |
| Horses | - | 20,000+ sq ft lot required |
| Agricultural Zones | - | Broader livestock allowed |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
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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