Backyard chickens in Redding, California

Yes. The City of Redding's Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 18.43 ("Standards for Specific Land Uses"), Section 18.43.040 "Animals," expressly allows the keeping of hen chickens on residential property in the City's low-density residential zoning districts. The ordinance states that it is appropriate that hen chickens and bees be allowed within a more urban environment to the extent that they do not constitute a nuisance to neighboring properties. Unlike most other animals covered by the section, the keeping of animals such as cats, dogs, and other household pets, and the other listed animals, is permitted in districts zoned "RL," "RE" and "RS," and hen chickens specifically are exempt from the minimum parcel/site-area threshold that applies to other livestock — the code lists Hen chickens · No site area limitations, meaning hens can be kept even on standard suburban lots.

Roosters, however, are not allowed — Redding's Animal Control code (Title 7) separately prohibits roosters (and peafowl), and secondary sources confirm 'Roosters Allowed: No' for the city. Setback rules apply to the chicken enclosure/coop: general animal-enclosure standards require that enclosures shall not be located within an alley or within fifty feet (50') of a front property line, and enclosures shall not be located closer to any residence on an adjoining property than the distance specified, which for poultry has historically been set at a 40-foot distance to any dwelling, per the 2010 Planning Commission's adopted standard of Front, 15 feet; Interior side, 5 feet; street side, 15 feet; rear, 15 feet; distance to adjoining residence, 40 feet for backyard chicken enclosures.

The code also contains a special relief valve for hen chickens: the side and rear property line setbacks may be reduced to five feet (5'), and the setbacks from a residence on an adjoining property may be reduced to thirty feet (30') for the keeping of hen chickens if the resident(s)/property owner(s) on abutting property or properties provide written permission to the City, in a form acceptable to the Development Services Director. Utilizing this reduced-setback exception requires processing through the Zoning Clearance provisions of Section 18.12.030A.2.

Redding sits in California's upper Sacramento Valley and is known for very hot, dry summers, with many days exceeding 100°F, paired with mild, wetter winters. Coops should prioritize shade, cross-ventilation, and ample cool water in summer, while winter cold is rarely severe enough to require heavy insulation.

Redding's mix of suburban neighborhoods bordering oak woodland and river corridors (Sacramento River, foothill open space) means backyard flocks can face raccoons, foxes, coyotes, bobcats, hawks, owls, opossums, skunks, and gopher/rat snakes going after eggs and chicks. Fully enclosed, hardware-cloth-covered runs and secure nighttime coop locking are strongly recommended.