Chickens & Livestock: Rialto vs San Bernardino
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Rialto, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Rialto and San Bernardino have similar restriction levels.
Rialto, CA
San Bernardino County
Backyard fowl and small livestock are governed by Rialto Municipal Code Title 6 (Animals) and the Title 18 zoning chapter. Most R-1 single-family lots in this Inland Empire freight hub allow a small number of hens for personal use, but roosters, swine and large hoofed stock are restricted to A-1/R-A agricultural zones, with setbacks from neighboring dwellings under Ch. 18.06.
View full Rialto rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino allows chickens in certain residential zones under Development Code Title 19 with setback and sanitation rules. Roosters are generally restricted or prohibited in residential zones.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rialto | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Code | RMC Title 6 (Animals) + Title 18 zoning | Development Code Title 19 |
| Roosters | Restricted in R-1 residential | Restricted or prohibited in residential |
| Large livestock | A-1 / R-A zones only | - |
| Enforcement | Community Compliance 909-820-8070 | - |
| Hens | - | Allowed in qualifying residential zones |
| Animal Control | - | 909-386-9820 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Rialto FAQ
Can I keep backyard hens in Rialto?
A small flock of hens is generally allowed on R-1 lots if coops are kept clean and set back from neighbors. Roosters are prohibited in residential zones. Confirm zone-specific limits with Rialto Planning and RMC Title 18.
Are goats or horses allowed?
Goats, horses and cattle are permitted only in Rialto's agricultural / rural-residential (A-1 / R-A) zones with minimum lot sizes and setbacks under RMC Title 18, Ch. 18.06.
San Bernardino FAQ
Can I keep chickens in my backyard?
In many San Bernardino residential zones yes, subject to lot-size, setback, and sanitation rules in Development Code Title 19; roosters are usually not allowed.
Do I need a permit for a goat?
Larger livestock are restricted to agricultural or rural-residential zones and typically need a minimum lot size and may require an administrative permit.
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