Chickens & Livestock: Reedley vs Selma
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Reedley, CA and Selma, CA?
Reedley and Selma have similar restriction levels.
Reedley, CA
Fresno County
RMC 5-3-23 restricts farm animals by zone. Chickens, goats, cows, and fowl are allowed in agricultural zones but may be prohibited in some residential areas. Noise rules apply.
View full Reedley rules →Selma, CA
Fresno County
Selma regulates the keeping of fowl, livestock, and wild animals under SMC Title VI, Chapter 2 (Animals), Section 6-2-21 (Prohibition of Fowl, Livestock and Wild Animals), which restricts or prohibits keeping such animals in certain areas based on zoning classification and lot characteristics. The keeping of chickens, roosters, ducks, geese, turkeys, and other poultry, as well as goats, sheep, hogs, cattle, horses, and other livestock, is generally prohibited in standard residential zoning districts where lot sizes are typical of urban development. Agricultural zones and properties with larger parcels may allow livestock and poultry keeping subject to conditions designed to prevent nuisance impacts on neighbors. The City of Selma Animal Services Division, located at 2831 W. Front Street, enforces animal keeping regulations and responds to complaints about prohibited animals on residential properties. Animals kept in any zone must be maintained in sanitary conditions and may not create a nuisance through excessive noise such as rooster crowing, offensive odors from animal waste, attraction of flies and vermin, or unsanitary conditions presenting public health concerns. Residents considering keeping chickens or livestock should verify zoning eligibility with the Selma Community Development Department before acquiring animals, as violations can result in mandatory removal.
View full Selma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Reedley | Selma |
|---|---|---|
| Code | RMC 5-3-23 -- farm animal zones | - |
| Farm Animal | Chickens, goats, pigs, cows, horses, fowl | - |
| Noise | RMC 5-3-10 -- excessive noise prohibited | - |
| Sanitation | Enclosures must be maintained clean | - |
| Code Section | - | SMC 6-2-21 |
| Residential Zones | - | Livestock generally prohibited |
| Agricultural Zones | - | May allow animal keeping |
| Animal Services | - | 2831 W. Front St, (559) 218-1937 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Reedley FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Reedley?
It depends on your zoning district. RMC 5-3-23 restricts farm animals including chickens in certain zones. Agricultural zones generally allow poultry, while some residential zones may prohibit them. Contact the Community Development Department to verify what is allowed at your address.
Are roosters allowed in Reedley?
Roosters may be restricted in residential areas because of the excessive noise provisions in RMC 5-3-10. Noise that disturbs the peace and comfort of neighbors is a code violation regardless of the animal source. Check your specific zone for farm animal allowances.
What livestock can I keep in agricultural zones?
Agricultural zones in Reedley generally allow standard livestock including horses, cows, goats, sheep, and poultry. Animals must be maintained in sanitary conditions and enclosures must prevent animals from running at large.
Selma FAQ
Can I keep chickens in my Selma backyard?
It depends on your property's zoning classification. SMC 6-2-21 prohibits fowl and livestock in most standard residential zones. Agricultural zones and larger-lot properties may permit chicken keeping subject to conditions. Contact the Selma Community Development Department to verify your zoning eligibility before acquiring birds.
Are roosters allowed in Selma?
Roosters are generally restricted in urban residential areas due to noise concerns from crowing that begins before dawn. Even in zones where hens may be permitted, rooster keeping is typically prohibited or subject to special conditions. Contact Selma Animal Services at (559) 218-1937 for guidance specific to your property.
Where do I report a neighbor keeping livestock illegally in Selma?
Contact Selma Animal Services at 2831 W. Front Street or call (559) 218-1937. Animal Services officers investigate complaints about prohibited animal keeping in residential zones and work with property owners to achieve compliance with SMC 6-2-21.
Compare other topics
See how Reedley and Selma 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