Backyard Chickens in Phoenix, Arizona

What the Phoenix Rules Say

Phoenix regulates poultry under City Code Section 8-7. The code allows up to six head of poultry on the first one-half acre or less. More poultry may be kept on a lot of that size only if written permission is obtained from each lawful occupant and owner of adjoining lots.

Poultry enclosures must be at least 20 feet from neighboring property lines unless the neighboring owners and occupants give written permission. Poultry may not be kept in the front yard, and enclosures must prevent birds from wandering onto property belonging to others.

Male poultry are not allowed within city limits unless they are incapable of making vocal noises that disturb another person’s peace, comfort, or health.

What This Means in Plain English

For a normal Phoenix backyard, plan around up to six hens, no crowing roosters, and a side- or rear-yard enclosure at least 20 feet from neighboring property lines.

Phoenix is also affected by Arizona’s statewide backyard fowl law, which prevents municipalities from banning up to six domestic chickens for qualifying single-family detached residences on lots of one-half acre or less. City rules can still regulate roosters, enclosure placement, sanitation, and nuisance conditions.

Getting Started

1. Confirm your property is within Phoenix city limits.
2. Plan for no more than six hens on a typical half-acre-or-smaller lot.
3. Keep the enclosure out of the front yard.
4. Measure 20 feet from neighboring property lines.
5. Avoid roosters because noise-capable male poultry are not allowed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Phoenix, AZ?

Yes. Phoenix allows backyard poultry, with flock limits, enclosure placement rules, and nuisance controls.

How many chickens can I have in Phoenix?

Phoenix allows up to six poultry on the first one-half acre or less unless written neighbor permission allows more.

Are roosters allowed in Phoenix?

Not crowing roosters. Male poultry are only allowed if they are incapable of making vocal noises that disturb others.