The Palos Verdes Peninsula isn’t just coastal—it’s country. With over 25 miles of bridle trails, spacious estates, and a rich equestrian heritage, it's one of the last places in Los Angeles County where you can truly live the horse life.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or just beginning your search, buying equestrian property in Palos Verdes or the South Bay comes with a unique set of decisions. From zoning and trail access to drainage and fencing, here’s everything you need to know—organized for clarity, optimized for search, and crafted to help you find your perfect match.
📍 Step 1: Choose the Right Community for Your Lifestyle
🏘️ What Are the Best Horse-Friendly Neighborhoods in Palos Verdes?
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Rolling Hills (RH): Gated and ultra-private, with mandatory equestrian/open-space requirements on many lots. Wide roads, barns, and riding arenas are common.
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Rolling Hills Estates (RHE): Designed for equestrians—home to the Dapplegray Riding Club and over 20 miles of public bridle trails. Horse Overlay zoning allows up to 4 horses per lot.
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Rancho Palos Verdes (RPV): Horsekeeping is allowed in specific “Q” overlay zones like Portuguese Bend, but regulations vary—zoning confirmation is essential.
👉 Tip: Not all horse-zoned neighborhoods feel “equestrian.” Look for areas with active trail use, nearby boarding facilities, and a community of fellow riders.
📏 Step 2: Understand the Land
🌄 Is the Lot Usable for Horses?
Look for:
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Flat or gently sloped land (ideally under 15% grade)
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Room for barns, paddocks, and trailer access
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Trail proximity or direct access to community bridle paths
Steep or poorly graded lots can be costly to rework and may require permits for land disturbance.
🌱 What’s the Soil Like?
Ideal equestrian properties in Palos Verdes have:
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Well-draining, loamy soil
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Minimal erosion
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No clay buildup or standing water
You can request a soil or geotechnical report during escrow for peace of mind.
💧 Step 3: Evaluate Water, Drainage & Infrastructure
💦 What’s the Water Situation?
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Most homes in PV use city water (ample for household + horses)
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Wells are rare but occasionally found on large RH properties
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Horses drink 5–10 gallons of water per day, per animal
🌧️ How’s the Drainage?
Mud is the enemy of healthy hooves. Look for:
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Graded paddocks
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Functional gutters on barns and homes
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Dry areas after rain
If you visit after a storm, even better—it’s the best time to spot drainage problems.
🏠 Step 4: Check the Horse-Ready Features
🐴 Does the Property Have the Basics?
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Barn or run-in shelter (or space to build)
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Secure fencing — at least 5 feet tall and highly visible
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Tack room with dry storage and lighting
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Feed & hay storage
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Arena or space for one (flat, well-drained surface)
In RHE and RH, new barns or arenas often require city permits or design review board approval.
🚚 Is There Access for Trailers and Deliveries?
Confirm:
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Wide, paved driveways
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Room for turnarounds
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Space for hay delivery, vet trucks, and emergency services
🧾 Step 5: Know the Legal Stuff
🧱 What’s the Zoning?
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RHE: Horse Overlay Zone, up to 4 horses permitted per lot
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RH: Equestrian zoning standard; barn/corral space often required
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RPV: Only allowed in “Q” overlay districts—check parcel map with the city
📜 Are There Easements or Setbacks?
Check for:
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Bridle trail or utility easements
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Setback requirements (from road, neighboring homes, or waterways)
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HOA or CC&R restrictions (especially in RH and gated communities)
Some properties may have “grandfathered” allowances for more horses—but they may expire if not actively used.
🧰 Step 6: Consider Expansion, Safety & Security
🔨 Will You Add Structures?
If you’re thinking about building:
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Arenas
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Additional stalls
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Guest houses
…then verify lot coverage ratios and city rules.
Cities like RH and RHE have strict guidelines on grading, square footage, and building materials.
🔐 Is the Property Secure?
Consider:
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Cameras on barns and tack rooms
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Automatic gates
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Lighting for night checks
Even in a safe area like PV, tack and equipment theft can happen.
🎯 Step 7: Ask the Right Questions
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Is the trail access public or private?
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Is the fencing safe and horse-appropriate?
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Can my vet, farrier, and hay delivery easily access the site?
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Is the barn permitted and in good condition?
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Are there any active permits, easements, or environmental restrictions?
💬 Final Thoughts: Horses First, Always
Buying an equestrian property isn’t just about lot size or the house—it’s about ensuring your horses have the environment they need to thrive. And in Palos Verdes, the beauty of the land pairs with a long-standing equestrian culture that’s rare in LA County.
From Rolling Hills estates with private arenas to Portuguese Bend hideaways with ocean-view paddocks, your dream property might already be on the market—you just need someone who knows where to look.
🤝 Let’s Find the Right Equestrian Property for You
I'm Lenny LaRocca, a South Bay local and seasoned real estate professional who understands the real needs of equestrian buyers. Let’s talk about zoning, drainage, trails, and—of course—finding a home that works for both you and your horses.
📱 310-698-6444
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.LaRoccaGroupRE.com
