CAMARILLO : Rules on Keeping Animals Are Eased

Camarillo residents can now obtain permits to keep goats, sheep and some wild birds in residential neighborhoods for short periods of time.

In response to residents’ requests, the Planning Commission voted 3 to 0 Tuesday to change the zoning ordinance that defines which domestic animals are allowed in residential areas. Two members of the commission were absent.

Youths involved in 4-H programs previously had to keep goats and sheep at private farms, said Bob Burrow, a city planning official.

But with a short-term special event permit, the youths can now keep the animals at home, he said. The permits are for six months or less.

Under the new ordinance, wild birds such as parrots, hawks and falcons will also be allowed in residential areas. The commission rejected requests to include pigs, calves and ponies.

“We just didn’t feel it was in keeping with the definition of a domestic animal,” Burrow said.