Backyard Chickens in California: Laws and Permits
Backyard chickens have become an increasingly popular trend in many Californian cities. While the state of California does not have a blanket law prohibiting chickens in residential areas, numerous cities and counties within the state have their own specific regulations. This article aims to guide you through the legal requirements and permit processes in various California cities, offering insights into how you can legally keep chickens in your backyard.
California's Chicken Keeping Laws
It's important to note that California does not have a state-wide ban on having backyard chickens, nor does it mandate permits for all cities. However, some cities do require permits, which can vary widely in terms of numbers allowed and zoning restrictions. Here is a comprehensive summary of the laws across different cities in California:
General Permits and Restrictions
Many cities do not require a permit to keep a small number of chickens, as long as they comply with local zoning laws and other regulations. For instance, Adelanto allows up to 5 hens and one rooster without a permit, provided that each hen has 1800 square feet of space. Similarly, Alhambra allows up to 15 hens and 50 chicks under four months of age, with noise ordinances applicable and no permit required.
Specific City Regulations
Alameda County generally allows up to three hens, with more than three requiring a special permit. El Dorado County permits chickens, including roosters, with no number restrictions but adheres to zoning laws. Riverside County allows chickens, including roosters, which can be kept on a back lot without number limitations. Sonoma County permits up to 20 hens depending on plot size and does not require permits.
Other Notable Cities
Adelanto allows one hen for every 1800 square feet up to a maximum of five hens, including one rooster, with no permit needed. Bakersfield has no number restrictions and allows roosters without a permit. Burbank allows up to six hens. Berkeley permits up to six hens but may require special permission for more than 20 hens.
Permit Requirements in Specific Areas
In some cities, permits are required, even if the number of chickens is relatively small. Culver City, for example, requires a permit but does not limit the number of chickens, subject to noise ordinances. San Francisco permits up to four roosters with no other permit needed. San Diego allows up to 25 hens depending on zone and plot size, but no roosters are permitted, and the process does not require a permit.
General Tips for Keeping Chickens
When considering keeping chickens in your backyard, it's crucial to review the specific regulations of your city or county. Zoning laws might dictate the number of chickens you can keep, and noise ordinances can limit the number of roosters. Additionally, it's important to be aware of your neighbors, as chickens can make noise. Ensure you have enough space and resources to maintain your hens, such as a coop, nesting boxes, feed, and water.
Conclusion
Whether you're a novice chicken keeper or an experienced enthusiast, knowing the legal requirements and understanding the permit processes in your local area can make the difference between a successful and compliant backyard flock and a restrictions-driven project. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your chickens are well within the legal limits and contribute positively to your community.