Costa Mesa is not interested in changing the character and land uses currently found in any of the County unincorporated areas. Most property owners indicate that proper maintenance of homes and their surrounding area is important. Opinion is mixed regarding allowing livestock such as chickens in existing residential areas. Currently, County zoning does NOT permit chickens and other livestock. Additionally, it does not allow the parking of vehicles on lawns.
Maintenance is a top priority of the City of Costa Mesa.
It has nine full-time code enforcement officers while the County has seven officers for the entire county. Survey property owners regarding permitting of chickens and other small livestock. If so desired, modify city codes to permit chickens and small livestock in designated areas. Otherwise, apply City property maintenance standards and establish a phased amortization program to eliminate code violations. The City also adopted a comprehensive property maintenance ordinance in September 2000 to ensure that all properties are maintained at an acceptable level.