Backyard Chickens in Tucson, Arizona

What the Tucson Rules Say

Tucson regulates fowl under Chapter 4, Article IV. Section 4-56 says that, except as permitted by the Unified Development Code or otherwise provided, a person may not keep more than 24 fowl in the city.

Section 4-57 says fowl coops, houses, sheds, structures, yards, corrals, or enclosures may not be kept within 50 feet of another person’s dwelling, except as otherwise provided. Section 4-58 requires fowl areas to be kept clean and sanitary.

Section 4-59 prohibits keeping, housing, or feeding male fowl or guinea fowl within the city, except to the extent permitted by the Unified Development Code or otherwise provided.

What This Means in Plain English

Tucson allows hens, but the rules are layered. The animal code has a 24-fowl limit, sanitation rules, and a male-fowl ban. The Unified Development Code and Arizona’s statewide backyard fowl law may affect how the older setback language applies to qualifying backyard chicken setups.

For a beginner flock, plan around hens only, keep the coop clean, and verify the current setback standard for your exact property before building.

Getting Started

1. Confirm your zoning and whether the UDC has additional standards for your property.
2. Keep only hens unless the city confirms a specific exception.
3. Place the coop conservatively away from neighboring dwellings.
4. Keep birds enclosed and do not allow them to run at large.
5. Maintain the coop in a clean, sanitary condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Tucson, AZ?

Yes. Tucson allows fowl, including chickens, subject to city code, UDC, sanitation, and nuisance rules.

How many chickens can I have in Tucson?

The reviewed Tucson animal code sets a 24-fowl limit except as otherwise permitted by the Unified Development Code or other law.

Are roosters allowed in Tucson?

No for ordinary backyard purposes. Tucson prohibits male fowl unless an exception applies.