Backyard Chickens in Sacramento, California

What the Sacramento Rules Say

Sacramento allows a maximum of three hen chickens on a developed residential lot, but only with the required permit. Roosters are prohibited on residential lots.

The code requires hens to be confined in a pen, coop, cage, or other enclosure at all times. The enclosure must be in the rear yard and at least 20 feet from any dwelling unit on an adjacent parcel. Hens may not be kept in the front yard, may not create a noise disturbance audible on an adjoining lot, and may not be slaughtered on the property.

The city’s poultry license page lists an annual chicken license and annual coop permit.

What This Means in Plain English

Sacramento is friendly to very small flocks, but it is a permit-and-license city. Plan around three hens, no roosters, a rear-yard coop, and a 20-foot neighbor-dwelling setback.

Getting Started

1. Measure the rear-yard coop site from neighboring dwelling units.
2. Apply for the poultry license and coop permit.
3. Keep hens enclosed at all times.
4. Do not keep roosters.
5. Clean the coop frequently to prevent odor and pests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Sacramento, CA?

Yes. Sacramento allows up to three hens on eligible residential lots with the required permit and licensing.

Are roosters allowed in Sacramento?

No. Roosters are prohibited on developed residential lots.