If you’re thinking about raising chickens in San Diego, you’ll be glad to know it’s entirely legal — but there are clear limits and requirements in place to keep neighborhoods safe and sanitary. This in-depth guide explores how many chickens you can have, poultry coop standards, county vs. city rules, health tips, and best practices to stay compliant.
1. Legal Framework: San Diego City Regulations
San Diego’s Municipal Code allows backyard chickens on properties with single-family homes, community gardens, or retail farms. Regulations are found in Section 42.0708 and 42.0709, updated in 2012.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- No roosters are permitted.
- Up to 5 chickens allowed if the coop meets municipal setbacks.
- Up to 15 chickens if the coop is ≥ 15 feet from all property lines and outside required setbacks.
- Up to 25 chickens if the coop and run are ≥ 50 feet from any residential building.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
2. Setback and Zoning Nuances
Chickens are permitted based on how far your structure is from property lines or homes. Most single-family zones qualify for 5 chickens if the coop is in the rear yard, set back at least 5 feet from side property lines and 13 feet from rear lines.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
For more specific property information, use the city’s zoning lookup tool or call Development Services to find your zone and applicable setback rules.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
3. Coop & Run Design Requirements
Coops must be:
- Predator-proof
- Well-ventilated and watertight
- Large enough to allow chickens “free movement”
Runs must also be predator-proof, fenced, easy to clean, and provide at least 10 square feet per chicken.:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5} Some resources recommend 6 sq ft per chicken inside the coop.:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
4. Health & Safety Considerations
Chickens carry Salmonella—even if they look healthy. San Diego recommends precautionary measures:
- Young children (under 5) should only handle chickens under close supervision.
- Wash hands thoroughly after contact or handling soiled equipment.
- Keep chickens separate from areas where food is prepared or eaten.
- Clean coops, feed containers, and tools outside the house.:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
5. County vs. City Rules — Know the Difference
San Diego County covers unincorporated areas with different regulations. County setback rules for animal enclosures vary, but roosters are still regulated separately.:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8} Rooster-specific rules include:
- Limits on rooster numbers by property size
- Setback requirements of 50 ft from property lines and 150 ft from residences
- Exemptions for 4-H, FFA, schools, and shelters with documentation.:contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Rooster enclosures not conforming to the setback rules needed to be upgraded by August 24, 2020, with possible hardship extensions.:contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
6. Enforcement & Community Insights
San Diego generally enforces chicken rules only when there’s a complaint. But the code is clear—your coop setup must follow the regulations.
Local community members add practical wisdom:
“The city allows you to have six birds, no roosters. Kill the boys early if you want to stay on good relations with your neighbors.”:contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Others emphasize coop cleanliness and containment, especially in raccoon-prone areas.:contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
7. Why These Regulations Matter
These policies strike a balance between urban agriculture and public health. They allow families to harvest fresh eggs while protecting neighbors from noise, odors, and unsafe setups. The nutrient-rich eggs and compost benefits offer real value—but only when kept responsibly.:contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
8. Summary Table
| Condition | Maximum Chickens Allowed |
|---|---|
| Standard setbacks | Up to 5 chickens |
| 15 ft from all property lines | Up to 15 chickens |
| 50 ft from any residence | Up to 25 chickens |
| Roosters | Not permitted in city limits |
| Coop Requirements | Predator-proof, ventilated, easy to clean, adequate space |
| Run Requirements | Predator-proof, fenced, ≥10 sq ft per chicken |
9. Planning Your Own Flock: Best Practices
- **Check your zone’s setback requirements** using the city’s tool or call Development Services at (619) 446-5000.
- **Position your coop wisely**—start with 5 hens and expand only if space allows and you confirm species limits.
- **Follow coop and run specs closely**—durability, hygiene, and protection are key.
- **Build a routine for cleaning**—frequent manure removal helps avoid odors and flies.
- **Store feed securely**—keep rodents away to safeguard chicken and neighborhood sanitation.
- **Respect neighbors**—no roosters, minimal noise, and clean practices go a long way.
- **Monitor health**—keep eyes on salmonella risks and protect vulnerable family members.
10. Final Thoughts
San Diego’s chicken law is smart, practical, and designed to let families enjoy the benefits of backyard poultry—so long as they do it mindfully. With a combination of setback-based limits, coop standards, and health guidance, the city encourages urban farming while maintaining public welfare. Whether you’re just starting or expanding your flock, thoughtful planning and neighbor respect will help ensure a successful and compliant experience.