Pets, chickens and bees in Rancho Cordova

A minimum lot size of 6,000 square feet is advised for beekeeping. A maximum of two hives should be allowed on any lot or parcel up to 10,000 square feet in size.

For lots or parcels between 10,001 and 20,000 square feet in size, a maximum of four hives should be allowed.

For lots or parcels larger, a maximum of six hives should be allowed.

Hives should not be kept or maintained within any required front yard area. Hives located within the side and rear yard areas of a lot should maintain a minimum of a 10-foot setback from side and rear property lines to the hives.

A maximum of six hens may be kept within the backyard or rear yard of a developed residential lot within the RD-3, RD-4, RD-5, RD-6, or RD-7 land use categories with a permit issued pursuant to RCMC § 8.11.050.

The coop must be located within the rear or side yard of the property, at least five feet from rear or side yard property lines and at least 20 feet from any dwelling unit on an adjacent parcel.

The coop must be located within the rear or side yard of the property, at least five feet from rear or side yard property lines and at least 20 feet from any dwelling unit on an adjacent parcel.

Upon submission of a completed permit application, the payment of any nonrefundable permit fee set by city council resolution, and a finding by the animal services manager that the proposed keeping of hens complies with the requirements of this chapter, the animal services manager shall issue a revocable permit.