Chickens & Livestock: San Diego vs San Marcos
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between San Diego, CA and San Marcos, CA?
San Diego and San Marcos have similar restriction levels.
San Diego, CA
San Diego County
San Diego permits up to 5 chickens (hens only, no roosters) on single-family lots under SDMC Section 42.0709. Coop must be in the rear yard, 5 feet from side property lines and 13 feet from rear. Larger livestock (goats, sheep) allowed on lots of 1 acre or more with additional setbacks.
View full San Diego rules →San Marcos, CA
San Diego County
San Marcos allows chickens and small livestock on residential lots meeting minimum acreage thresholds set by the zoning designation. Properties zoned for estate residential or rural may keep horses, goats, and poultry subject to setback and enclosure requirements. Standard residential zones generally permit a limited number of hens without roosters. All animals must be maintained in sanitary conditions and enclosures must meet setback distances from neighboring dwellings.
View full San Marcos rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Diego | San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| Chickens Allowed | Up to 5 hens | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited | - |
| Side Setback | 5 feet | - |
| Rear Setback | 13 feet | - |
| Code Section | SDMC 42.0709 | - |
| Hens | - | Allowed in most residential zones; roosters prohibited |
| Enclosure Setback | - | 20–50 ft from neighboring dwellings |
| Feed Storage | - | Must be in rodent-proof containers |
| Code Enforcement | - | (760) 744-1050 x3234 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Diego FAQ
Can I keep chickens in San Diego?
Yes, up to 5 hens on single-family lots. No roosters. Coop must be in the rear yard, 5 feet from side property lines and 13 feet from rear under SDMC 42.0709.
Can I keep goats in San Diego?
Goats and larger livestock are permitted on lots of 1 acre or more, with animals kept at least 50 feet from dwellings on adjacent lots.
San Marcos FAQ
Can I keep chickens in San Marcos?
Yes, most residential zones allow hens. Roosters are generally prohibited due to noise. Coops must meet setback requirements from neighboring homes and be kept sanitary.
How many chickens can I have in San Marcos?
The number depends on your zoning designation and lot size. Standard residential zones typically allow a small number of hens. Check your specific zoning with the Planning Division at (760) 744-1050.
Can I keep goats or horses on my property in San Marcos?
Larger livestock is permitted on properties zoned for estate residential or rural use that meet minimum acreage requirements. Standard residential lots generally do not qualify.
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