San Diego Quick Summary
Limit: Up to 25 hens with use permit · Roosters: Prohibited in residential zones · Permit: Use permit required · Setback: 20 ft from any structure · Code: SDMC § 42.0306
San Diego's Unusually Permissive Hen Limit
San Diego stands out among California cities for allowing up to 25 hens in residential zones — significantly more permissive than Los Angeles (6), San Jose (6), or Sacramento (10). The catch: a use permit is required, and the 20-foot setback from any structure (including neighboring structures) applies strictly.
San Diego Municipal Code § 42.0306 governs "Keeping of Animals" in residential zones. The 25-hen limit reflects San Diego's mixed urban-agricultural heritage and its significant number of larger suburban and semi-rural residential parcels, particularly in areas like Rancho Bernardo, Santee, and East County neighborhoods incorporated into the city.
San Diego vs. San Diego County
San Diego city limits and San Diego County (unincorporated areas) have completely different ordinances. If your property is in unincorporated San Diego County — areas like Ramona, Valley Center, Lakeside, or El Cajon outside city limits — county rules apply and are generally more permissive. Use the County's Parcel Lookup to confirm your jurisdiction.Key Rules at a Glance
- Up to 25 hens permitted with a use permit in residential zones
- Roosters are prohibited in residential zones (noise ordinance enforcement)
- A use permit from Development Services is required
- Enclosure must be at least 20 feet from any structure (yours or neighbor's)
- Rear yard placement required
- Feed must be stored in rodent-proof sealed containers
- Permit application requires site plan showing setback distances
| Rule | Detail | Notes | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flock limit | Up to 25 hens | Among highest in California | SDMC § 42.0306 |
| Roosters | Prohibited | SDMC noise provisions | SDMC § 59.5.0101 |
| Permit | Use permit required | From Development Services | SDMC § 42.0306 |
| Setback | 20 ft from any structure | Applies to neighboring structures too | SDMC § 42.0306 |
| Location | Rear yard only | Front yard prohibited | SDMC § 42.0306 |
How San Diego Compares to Nearby Cities
| City | Limit | Permit | Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 6 hens | None | 35 ft from neighbor's structure |
| San Diego | 25 hens | Use permit | 20 ft from any structure |
| Sacramento | 10 hens | No permit | 20 ft from neighbor's dwelling |
| San Jose | 6 hens | No permit | Rear yard only |
| San Francisco | 4 hens | No permit | 20 ft from dwelling |
| Chula Vista | 6 hens | Permit required | 25 ft setback |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — San Diego Municipal Code § 42.0306 permits up to 25 hens in residential zones with a use permit. This is one of the highest limits of any major California city. The high limit reflects San Diego's many larger-lot neighborhoods. On a standard urban lot, 25 hens would be impractical from a space standpoint regardless of the legal limit — welfare minimums of 4 sq ft/bird indoors and 10 sq ft/bird in run means 25 hens need ~350 sq ft of total enclosure space.
San Diego Development Services issues use permits for residential poultry keeping. The fee structure changes periodically — contact the Development Services Department at (619) 446-5000 or visit their Kearny Mesa office for current fee schedules. As of late 2024, use permits for residential livestock are in the $150–$300 range depending on the application category.
Yes — those neighborhoods fall within San Diego city limits in standard residential zoning. The same use permit + 20-foot setback rules apply. The 20-foot setback from any structure is the main practical challenge in denser neighborhoods where houses are close together. Use the Setback Calculator to check whether your specific lot has a compliant placement zone.
Related Guides
State GuideCalifornia Livestock LawsAll major CA cities.City GuideLos Angeles Chicken RulesHow San Diego compares to LA.ToolSetback CalculatorCheck your 20-ft placement zone.
Disclaimer: Ordinances change. Always verify current rules with San Diego's Planning or Zoning department before acquiring any animals.