Chickens & Livestock: Santa Monica vs Topanga
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Santa Monica, CA and Topanga, CA?
Santa Monica and Topanga have similar restriction levels.
Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Backyard chickens are allowed in Santa Monica with restrictions. Roosters are prohibited in residential areas due to noise. Livestock keeping is restricted by zoning district. The city enforces sanitary maintenance standards.
View full Santa Monica rules →Topanga, CA
Los Angeles County
Livestock and poultry keeping in unincorporated LA County is regulated by Title 10 (Animals) and Title 22 (Zoning). Roosters are restricted under LA County Code Chapter 10.38. Livestock keeping depends heavily on the zoning district. Animal keeping standards include setbacks from neighboring properties.
View full Topanga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Santa Monica | Topanga |
|---|---|---|
| Hens | Allowed with restrictions | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited in residential zones | Restricted under Chapter 10.38 |
| Livestock | Zoning-dependent | - |
| Maintenance | Sanitary conditions required | - |
| Zoning | - | Must be permitted in zone |
| Setbacks | - | Required from neighbors |
| Enforcement | - | LA County Animal Care & Control |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica does not have specific provisions permitting chickens in residential zones. Contact the Planning Department for current zoning interpretation.
Can I keep bees in Santa Monica?
Yes. Up to 2 hives on single-family residential property, registered with Animal Control, with siting requirements per SMMC Chapter 4.04.
Topanga FAQ
Can I keep chickens in unincorporated LA County?
It depends on your zoning district. Agricultural zones generally allow poultry. Some residential zones allow hens with setback requirements (typically 35-75 feet from neighboring dwellings). Roosters are restricted under Chapter 10.38. Check your zone with the Department of Regional Planning.
Are roosters allowed in LA County?
Roosters are restricted in most residential zones under Chapter 10.38 due to noise. Agricultural zones may permit them with adequate setbacks. Contact LA County Animal Care & Control at (562) 728-4610 for specifics.
How many chickens can I have?
The number depends on your zoning district and lot size. Check Title 22 for your zone's animal keeping standards or contact the Department of Regional Planning at (213) 974-6411.
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