Backyard Chickens in Denver, Colorado

What the Denver Rules Say

Denver allows a small food-producing flock with a permit. Denver Animal Protection describes the Food-Producing Animals permit as a one-time permit for keeping up to 8 hens, ducks, or a combination of hens and ducks, not to exceed 8 birds total.

Roosters and drakes are not included in that allowance. Denver’s animal materials also point residents to care, enclosure, and zoning considerations before adding birds.

What This Means in Plain English

Backyard hens are possible in Denver, but they are not a casual no-paperwork project. Plan on applying for the city’s Food-Producing Animal Permit before bringing birds home. Keep the flock hen-only and stay at or below 8 total hens or ducks.

Because Denver separates animal permitting from zoning and structure requirements, treat coop placement as a second checkpoint. Before building, confirm whether your coop or run needs any zoning, building, or accessory-structure review.

Practical Considerations

Permits First

Use Denver Animal Protection’s food-producing animal permit process before buying chicks or building a permanent coop. Keep a copy of your permit with your household records.

No Roosters

Denver’s allowance is for hens and ducks, not roosters or drakes. Hens lay eggs without a rooster, so keep the flock female-only.

Coop Security

Denver’s food-producing animal materials emphasize safe, clean, predator-resistant enclosures. Plan for rodent-resistant feed storage, secure hardware cloth, dry bedding, and a cleaning routine that prevents odor.

Getting Started

1. Confirm the current Denver Animal Protection food-producing animal permit requirements.
2. Decide whether you are keeping hens, ducks, or a combination, staying at 8 total birds or fewer.
3. Verify zoning, building, HOA, lease, and neighborhood restrictions before building.
4. Design a secure, easy-to-clean coop and run.
5. Keep roosters and drakes out of the flock.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Denver?

Yes. Denver allows up to 8 hens, ducks, or a combination of hens and ducks with the city food-producing animal permit.

Do I need a permit for backyard hens in Denver?

Yes. Denver Animal Protection lists a Food-Producing Animal Permit for hens and ducks.

Are roosters allowed in Denver?

No. The Denver food-producing animal allowance is for hens, not roosters.