Can I keep chickens in Visalia, CA?
Yes, with conditions — Visalia allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations. Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 20 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Visalia Municipal Code § 17.32.180, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Coop setback | 20 ft |
| Coop rules | Chickens NOT permitted in standard R-1 residential zones. Allowed only in R-1-20 (large lot residential) and agricultural/rural zones. Roosters prohibited. 20-ft setback from neighboring dwellings. |
| Code section | Visalia Municipal Code § 17.32.180 |
Visalia prohibits chickens in standard residential zones but allows them in R-1-20 (minimum 20,000 sq ft lots) and agricultural zones. Roosters are prohibited. 2023 City Council considered expansion.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Visalia?
Yes, with conditions — Visalia allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Visalia Municipal Code § 17.32.180).
How many chickens can I keep in Visalia?
It depends on your lot. R-1-20 and ag zones only; standard R-1 zones prohibit chickens.. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Visalia?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Visalia.
Are roosters allowed in Visalia?
No — roosters are prohibited in Visalia.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Visalia?
20 feet minimum. Chickens NOT permitted in standard R-1 residential zones. Allowed only in R-1-20 (large lot residential) and agricultural/rural zones. Roosters prohibited. 20-ft setback from neighboring dwellings.
What law covers backyard chickens in Visalia?
Visalia Municipal Code § 17.32.180. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Visalia Municipal Code § 17.32.180 — read the official code
“Chickens prohibited in R-1 residential zones; allowed in R-1-20 and agricultural zones only” source
Last verified June 13, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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