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Can I Have Chickens In My Backyard in Oklahoma?
Backyard chicken keeping has become increasingly popular across Oklahoma, but before setting up your coop, it’s important to understand what’s allowed in your area. While the state doesn’t have a blanket law against keeping chickens, each city and county sets its own rules on how many you can have, where you can place your coop, and whether roosters are permitted. Roosters are often restricted in residential areas because of noise. Some municipalities may also require permits or inspections to ensure animal welfare and prevent nuisances. Whether you live in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, or a rural community, checking your local zoning ordinances and any HOA regulations is the first step to making sure your backyard flock is both happy and compliant.
Is It Legal to Have Chickens in Your Backyard in Oklahoma?
Yes, it is legal to keep chickens in your backyard in many parts of Oklahoma, but the specific rules depend on your city, county, and zoning regulations. The state does not have a universal law that governs backyard chickens; instead, local ordinances determine what’s allowed.
Do You Need A Permit For Chickens in Oklahoma?
It depends on your city or county in Oklahoma; in some places, you do need a permit to keep backyard chickens, and in others, you don’t.
For example:
- In Oklahoma City: As of March 4, 2022, you can keep up to six hens or quail without a permit or fee.
- In other cities (or depending on zoning), a permit is required.
How Many Chickens Can I Have in Oklahoma?
The number of chickens you can keep in Oklahoma depends on your city or county regulations, since the state itself does not set a universal limit.
- In Oklahoma City, the ordinance allows up to 6 chickens or quail in residential backyards.
- In Tulsa, residents may keep up to 6 adult chickens and 14 chicks under 8 weeks in certain zones
Can I Let My Chickens Free-Range in My Backyard in Oklahoma?
Yes, but only if they stay on your property and your local city/county rules allow backyard chickens.
Here are a few things to consider:
- State Law: Oklahoma is a fence-in state. Owners must keep “domestic animals” restrained from running at large. Letting birds roam off your property (onto streets or neighbors’ yards) can bring fines and liability.
Can I Have A Rooster In My Backyard in Oklahoma?
No, in most major Oklahoma cities, such as Oklahoma City, Edmond, and surrounding areas, keeping roosters in your backyard is not allowed because of local noise regulations. It’s important to review your city’s specific ordinances and homeowners association (HOA) guidelines, as many communities have strict rules prohibiting or limiting livestock, particularly roosters.
Can I Sell My Chicken Eggs in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can sell chicken eggs in Oklahoma, but how you can do it depends on how many eggs, where you sell them, and how they’re packaged/handled.
Here are the key rules:
- Under Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food & Forestry (ODAFF) regulations, if you are a producer selling ungraded eggs from your own flock, produced on your own farm, and sold directly to the consumer, you are exempt from the heavier licensing/packing requirements.
- If you are selling graded eggs, or selling to dealers/retailers, or selling off-farm, then you must comply with state “Egg Law” requirements: licensing, inspection, packaging/labeling, temperature control, etc.
- For sales at farmers’ markets, eggs must be properly stored (≤ 45 °F ambient) and labeled, and markets themselves must comply with certain rules.
Backyard Chicken Laws For Cities in Oklahoma
Many Colorado cities have specific ordinances governing whether backyard chickens are allowed, the number of hens residents can keep, and the types of structures, such as coops or runs, that are permitted. These rules can vary widely from one municipality to the next, so it’s important to verify your local requirements before starting any project. Simply click on your city’s name to view its current backyard chicken regulations and ensure your plans meet all local codes.
Does Ada, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, in Ada, Oklahoma, you can keep chickens in your backyard, but with specific restrictions. You’re allowed to own up to six hens (no roosters), and there are several requirements for coops, including placement, size, and cleanliness.
- The coop must be located at least 40 feet from other dwellings, commercial buildings, or food-related facilities.
- The chicken coop (or place where the birds are kept) must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition.
Does Altus, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Residents are not permitted to keep chickens inside the city limits in Altus. Local regulations classify chickens as “fowl” and make it illegal for them to roam freely within the city. If any poultry or other animals are found in violation of these rules, the Altus Animal Control Facility has the authority to capture and impound them under city or state law.
Does Ardmore, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, in Ardmore, Oklahoma, residents generally cannot keep backyard chickens within standard residential neighborhoods. The city classifies chickens as livestock, which means they are only allowed on properties that meet specific zoning designations and minimum land-size requirements, standards that most residential lots don’t satisfy. Roosters are completely banned within city limits, and while hens aren’t outright prohibited, they’re only allowed on properties zoned appropriately, such as those in the RS-40 district with at least two acres of land.
Does Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, you may keep backyard hens (female chickens) under certain conditions, but roosters are not allowed in standard residential zones. Single-family residential districts may keep up to six adult hens and fourteen chicks under eight weeks old, provided the birds are housed in a secure coop or enclosure and not allowed to roam freely. The chicken coop must be placed at least 50 feet from any neighboring residence.
Does Bethany, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, residents of Bethany, Oklahoma, are permitted to keep backyard chickens, though roosters are not allowed within city limits. Chickens may be kept as long as they do not create a nuisance for nearby residents, and all housing structures, such as coops, pens, or shelters, must be properly maintained and sanitary.
Does Bixby, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, residents of Bixby, Oklahoma, are allowed to keep backyard chickens, but there are specific regulations, and a permit may be required. Homeowners can keep up to six hens, while roosters are not allowed within city limits.
Does Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, you are allowed to keep backyard chickens, but they must comply with several regulations. According to the city code, it is illegal for any poultry (including chickens, roosters, turkeys, etc.) to be kept within 150 feet of a grocery store, food service establishment, school, or similar building unless the property is in a duly established agricultural district. Roosters are effectively prohibited in standard residential zones.
Chicken coops or pens must also be located at least 40 feet from any other residence, apartment house, hotel, restaurant, or similar building (other than the owner-occupied residence).
Does Chickasha, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, the city ordinances in Chickasha, Oklahoma, prohibit keeping backyard chickens and other fowl within city limits.
Does Claremore, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Claremore, Oklahoma, allows backyard chickens, but only under specific conditions defined by city ordinance. Residents may keep chickens within city limits provided they follow setback, sanitation, and flock-size rules:
- In agricultural zones, poultry must be kept in pens or buildings at least 100 feet from any adjoining property line.
- In non-agricultural residential areas, coops or pens must be no closer than 50 feet to any neighboring primary residence, and owners may keep up to 12 adult birds and 18 chicks under eight weeks old. Roosters are not allowed.
- If the property is too small to meet the 50-foot setback, residents may keep no more than 6 adults and 10 chicks, provided the coop is at least 25 feet from the nearest neighboring residence.
- All structures must have easily cleanable floors, be kept sanitary and odor-free, and have screened openings to prevent pests and disease.
Does Del City, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Del City, Oklahoma, allows residents to keep backyard chickens, but there are specific regulations in place. Homeowners may keep hens only, as roosters are prohibited within city limits. Anyone who wishes to raise chickens must first obtain a permit from the city, which authorizes the keeping of hens on residential property.
In addition, chicken owners are required to maintain a clean, secure coop that provides adequate protection from predators and ensures sanitary conditions. These rules help prevent nuisances and promote responsible backyard poultry keeping in Del City.
Does Duncan, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, the city of Duncan, Oklahoma, does not permit backyard chickens in typical residential zones. Ordinance 4-303 does not allow for chickens in residential areas. Only agriculturally zoned properties may have poultry.
Does Durant, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, Durant, Oklahoma, does not allow backyard chickens within standard residential areas. Only properties that are zoned for agricultural use are permitted to keep poultry.
Does Edmond, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Edmond, Oklahoma, allows backyard chickens, with specific rules in place. You must apply for a permit with a fee and class requirement, and roosters are prohibited.
Does Elk City, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can have backyard chickens in Elk, Oklahoma, but only under certain conditions. According to the city’s Code of Ordinances, chickens and other similar fowl are classified as livestock and may be kept within city limits as long as the property complies with Section 3-5 of the code and meets all state and county health department regulations.
Does Enid, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, in Enid, Oklahoma, you can keep backyard chickens under certain conditions. According to local resources, the city allows hens in areas zoned “A-Agriculture” or “R-1 Residential Estate,” and also on lots that are one acre or larger, even if not in those zones. However, roosters are prohibited except on agricultural‐zoned property. Before keeping chickens, you should check the zoning of your property and whether you need a waiver or permit for your specific lot.
Does Lawton, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, in Lawton, Oklahoma, you are generally allowed to keep backyard chickens, but only under certain conditions.
Here are things to consider:
- You must obtain a permit through the city’s Animal Welfare Department.
- Roosters are prohibited within city limits.
- Poultry must be kept in an enclosure that prevents “running at large,” and coops must be located at least 25 feet from the exterior limits of any neighboring dwelling.
Does Midwest City, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, in Midwest City, Oklahoma, backyard chickens are allowed under the city’s ordinance. Roosters are not permitted within city limits. On lots of at least 2,000 square feet, you may keep up to 12 chickens.
For larger lots, additional chickens may be allowed (roughly one additional chick unit per extra 1,000 sq. ft). Coops/enclosures must be located a minimum distance from other buildings; for example, the enclosure must be at least 40 feet from buildings other than the owner’s residence.
Does Moore, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, residents of Moore, Oklahoma, are not allowed to keep backyard chickens within city limits. In July 2022, the City Council unanimously rejected a proposed ordinance that would have legalized them.
Does Muskogee, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, residents of Muskogee, Oklahoma, are not permitted to keep backyard chickens within city limits. The city’s ordinances prohibit the keeping of chickens and other types of livestock in residential areas.
Does Norman, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, in Norman, Oklahoma, you are allowed to keep backyard chickens, though there are specific limitations. Roosters are not permitted.
- The coop and run must be placed in the rear/backyard only, with no part in the front or side yards.
- In one residential zone (R-1), the limit is up to four hens unless additional setback conditions are met.
- Setback requirements include at least 5 feet from any side or rear property line and 25 feet from any dwelling unit other than the owner’s.
Does Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, allows residents to keep backyard chickens, but there are specific rules to follow. As of March 4, 2022, city ordinances permit homeowners to raise up to six hens or quail, while roosters are strictly prohibited.
Chicken coops must provide at least 4 square feet of space per bird, and each bird must have 8 square feet of outdoor area for roaming. The enclosure must be positioned at least 5 feet from side property lines, 10 feet from the rear property line, and 30 feet from any neighboring dwelling. There is no permit or fee required, and the city enforces these regulations primarily on a complaint basis.
Does Owasso, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, residents of Owasso, Oklahoma, are permitted to keep backyard chickens, but there are specific regulations in place. Homeowners may keep up to six total birds (a combination of hens and chicks) or no more than ten chicks on a single property. Roosters are prohibited, and all chickens must be housed in a coop and enclosed run located in the rear yard of the property.
Does Ponca City, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, in Ponca City, Oklahoma, backyard chickens are allowed, but they come with restrictions. The city’s ordinance states that poultry (including chickens) may be kept only on lots of at least 3 acres or if the coop is located at least 100 feet from any dwelling, school, church, grocery or food services establishment that the animals don’t occupy.
Does Sand Spring, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, Sand Spring City, OK, does not permit residents to keep backyard chickens. According to Sand Spring city ordinances, maintaining poultry within city limits is prohibited. The animal regulations specify that if chickens are kept, they must be housed in a building or a coop that is at least 50 feet away from any neighboring home or other building.
Does Sapulpa, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Sapulpa, OK, allows residents to keep backyard chickens, but certain rules apply. You can have up to six chickens, but roosters are often restricted because of noise concerns. It’s important to review your local noise ordinance and be considerate of your neighbors, as a crowing rooster can easily become a disturbance, especially at certain times of day.
Does Shawnee, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Shawnee, Oklahoma, permits backyard chickens as long as you obtain a special animal permit, but several rules apply. Residents may keep up to 10 hens, roosters are not allowed. Additionally, coops and runs must meet the required setback distances. The permit must be secured through Shawnee City Clerk prior to bringing chickens onto the property, and an inspection is required before approval.
Does Stillwater, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can have backyard chickens in Stillwater, Oklahoma, under City Ordinance No. 3367, but the permission comes with specific guidelines. Residents may keep up to six hens or ducks, while roosters are not permitted. All birds must be kept solely for personal use, not for commercial purposes. Additionally, they must be housed in a coop and enclosed run situated in either the side or back yard.
Does Tahlequah, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Tahlequah, Oklahoma, permits backyard chickens, but there are rules you must follow, as noted in a 2024 Tahlequah Daily Press article. The city requires chickens to be kept in clean, fully enclosed coops, and owners must adhere to setback requirements from property lines and neighboring homes. Roosters are not allowed, and the number of chickens may be limited. Because additional restrictions may apply, it’s important to review the city’s ordinance for full details.
Does Tulsa, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Tulsa allows backyard chickens, but the rules come with certain conditions and have been the subject of ongoing discussion, meaning they may be subject to change over time. Although some suggested updates to the ordinance have not been adopted, the current guidelines typically allow a small number of mature hens, require coops to be kept clean and properly sized, and ban roosters in most residential areas. Homeowners should also review their HOA policies, as these may impose stricter limitations.
Does Yukon, Oklahoma, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Yukon, Oklahoma, permits backyard chickens, but several rules apply. Residents may keep up to four birds, and only on properties that are at least 6,000 square feet. Roosters are not allowed under any circumstances. Additional regulations require that chickens be housed in a clean coop, kept within designated setbacks from property lines, and enclosed behind a sight-obscuring fence at least six feet tall. All birds must remain securely contained.
Backyard Chicken Laws For Counties in Oklahoma
In many cases, backyard chicken regulations are enforced at the city level, with local ordinances determining what is and isn’t allowed. However, if you reside outside city limits in an unincorporated area, oversight typically falls to county officials and their respective zoning or planning departments.
| Canadian County | Permit Office |
| Cleveland County | County Clerk – Real Estate/Plats |
| Comanche County | Board of County Commissioners |
| Creek County | Planing & Zoning |
| Oklahoma County | Planning Commission |
| Payne County | County Government |
| Pottawatomie County | County Government |
| Rogers County | Planning Commission |
| Tulsa County | Zoning Codes |
| Wagoner County | Planning & Zoning |
Raise Chickens Responsibly With A Coop That Meets Requirements
If you want a coop that helps you stay compliant while giving your chickens a safe, comfortable home, OK Structures has you covered. Our chicken coops are constructed from durable, weather-resistant materials and designed to keep predators out, while also providing ample space for roosting and nesting. With multiple sizes and customization options available, you can easily choose a coop that fits your property and meets local requirements, without sacrificing quality or craftsmanship.