Fresh Eggs and Foothill Views: The Joy of a "Rancho Homestead"

If you would have told me ten years ago that my morning routine would include a trip to the backyard to gather fresh eggs, I might have laughed. But here I am, a lifelong Rancho local, and I’ve fallen head over heels for the "modern homestead" lifestyle. There is something incredibly grounding about looking out toward the San Gabriel Mountains while my chickens peck around the yard. It’s a slice of country life right in the heart of the Inland Empire.

In my house, the kitchen is the soul of our home. As someone who loves to cook, there is no substitute for a truly fresh egg—the yolks are richer, the color is deeper, and honestly, it just makes our family breakfasts feel a little more special. Whether I’m whipping up a quick post-baseball practice frittata or baking a weekend treat, having my own "backyard grocery store" has changed the way I think about our food and our home.

So, Can You Have Chickens in RC?

As a Realtor, this is one of the most frequent questions I get from families looking to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. The answer in Rancho Cucamonga is: Yes, but with some rules!

Generally, the city allows for backyard chickens in most residential zones, but there are specific requirements regarding:

• The "No Rooster" Rule: To keep our neighborhoods peaceful, roosters are a no-go in standard residential lots.

• Setbacks: Your coop usually needs to be a certain distance from your property lines and your neighbors' homes.

• Property Size: While most lots in Alta Loma and Etiwanda are perfect for a small flock, it’s always important to double-check your specific zoning or HOA guidelines before you build that dream coop.

More Than Just a Hobby

Beyond the fresh eggs, our chickens have become part of the family. My son has learned so much about responsibility and where our food comes from, and let’s be honest—they are a great conversation starter when neighbors walk by!

When I’m helping clients find a home, I’m always looking at the potential of the land. Is there room for a raised garden bed? Is the layout right for a coop? To me, a backyard isn’t just a patch of grass; it’s an opportunity for adventure and a way to create a lifestyle that feels intentional and connected to the earth.

Planning Your Own Flock?

If you’ve been dreaming of fresh eggs and a little bit of farm life in the suburbs, I’d love to chat. Whether you need a recommendation for the best local feed store or you’re looking for a property with enough "elbow room" to start your own homestead, I’m here to help.

Rancho Cucamonga offers the best of both worlds: top-tier amenities and the space to breathe. Let’s find the backyard that’s just right for your family (and your future flock!).

Hey Inland Empire, I’m Candice Newman! I’ve had the incredible fortune of being born and raised in this amazing community, and I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. I currently live in Alta Loma with my husband, Jonathan, our son, Trevor, and our dog, Ruger! I’m a real estate agent with a passion for finding new places to explore in the Foothill Communities. When I'm not selling homes, you can find me cheering my son on at his baseball games, exercising, spending time in our local mountains, heading to the lake, cooking, or watching the Dodgers slay the Giants (I was born and raised an Angels fan, but the Dodgers have taken over the household!). I'll never have enough Mexican food and Italian food in my life. I’m looking forward to connecting with you soon! See you around town! Candice.Newman.Realty@gmail.com | (909) 367-3280 DRE: 01924842