Regulations for Keeping Chickens and Livestock in the City of Grass Valley
Residents of the City of Grass Valley may keep up to four backyard chickens on residential lots that are at least 5,000 square feet in size, provided the property contains a single-family dwelling and no roosters are kept [Section 17.44.030]. Keeping larger livestock, such as horses, goats, or sheep, requires a Use Permit in most City of Grass Valley residential districts and is strictly prohibited in the R-3 Multiple Dwelling Residential zone [Section 17.22.030]. While the City of Grass Valley Development Code defines beekeeping, it does not explicitly list it as a standard residential land use, meaning it may be subject to a determination of similarity by the Community Development Director [Section 17.20.030].
Backyard Chickens
The City of Grass Valley allows the raising and keeping of backyard chickens in several zones. While Table 2-7 initially suggests chickens are primarily allowed in the R-E and R-1 zones, specific standards in Article 4 expand this permission to several Traditional Community Development zones [Section 17.44.030].
Requirements for Keeping Chickens
The following standards must be met to keep chickens within the City of Grass Valley:
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Allowed Zones | RE, R-1, NC-Flex, NG-2, NG-3, R-2, and R-3 |
| Minimum Parcel Size | 5,000 square feet |
| Maximum Number | 4 chickens |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Housing Type | Single-family dwelling only |
| Permitted Location | Fenced rear yard only |
| Structure Setbacks | Must meet the side and rear setbacks of the specific zone |
| Commercial Sales | Prohibited (eggs and chickens are for domestic use only) |
Residents must keep chickens in a secured coop or pen to protect them from predators. Additionally, all feed must be stored in an enclosed, vermin-proof container, and manure must be managed to prevent offensive odors or the breeding of flies and pests [Section 17.44.030].
Animal Keeping and Other Livestock
The City of Grass Valley defines "Animal Keeping" as the husbandry of farm animals, including but not limited to cows, horses, goats, sheep, and swine [Section 17.100.020]. This category is regulated separately from small household pets or backyard chickens.
Permit Requirements for Livestock
Permit requirements for livestock vary based on the specific City of Grass Valley residential zoning district:
| Zoning District | Permit Required |
|---|---|
| RE (Residential Estate) | Use Permit (UP) |
| R-1 (Single-Family Residential) | Use Permit (UP) |
| R-2 (Two-Family Residential) | Use Permit (UP) |
| R-2A (Medium Density Residential) | Use Permit (UP) |
| R-3 (Multiple Dwelling Residential) | Prohibited |
Agricultural accessory structures, such as barns, stables, or corrals intended to shelter these animals, are only permitted by right in the City of Grass Valley RE and R-1 zones. They are not allowed in the R-2, R-2A, or R-3 zones [Section 17.22.030].
Beekeeping
The City of Grass Valley Development Code defines a "Pollinator Apiary" (beekeeping) as an apiary established for the pollination of commercial crops. The code notes that these are temporary in nature and their longevity depends on the specific crop being pollinated [Section 17.100.020].
Because beekeeping is not specifically listed in the City of Grass Valley residential land use tables, it is considered a "Use Not Listed." Under these circumstances, the Community Development Director must determine if the use is similar and compatible with the allowed uses in the zone before it can be established [Section 17.20.030].
General Standards and Prohibitions
In all instances, animal keeping in the City of Grass Valley must not create a public nuisance. Any use of a property that becomes detrimental to public health, safety, or general welfare can result in the revocation of permits or enforcement action [Section 17.98.030]. Residents are also encouraged to use native vegetation for any required screening or landscaping related to animal enclosures [Section 17.34.020].
Sections Cited
- Section 17.20.030 – Allowable land uses and planning permit requirements.
- Section 17.22.030 – Residential zone allowable land uses and permit requirements (Table 2-7).
- Section 17.34.020 – Landscaping required.
- Section 17.44.030 – Backyard chickens.
- Section 17.98.030 – Revocations and modifications.
- Section 17.100.020 – Definitions of specialized terms and phrases.