Backyard Chickens in Westminster, Colorado
Chickens are legal in Westminster — here's exactly what the ordinance requires.
Quick legal answer
Are backyard chickens legal in Westminster, Colorado?
Yes — subject to local rules
- Hen limit
- Up to 6 hens
- Roosters
- Not allowed
- Permit
- Required — $25 one-time backyard-livestock permit fee
- Setback
- The coop must be at least 10 ft from all side and rear property lines.
- Zoning
- Chickens must be kept in the rear yard of a single-family detached property; one coop is allowed, with 6 sq ft per chicken and a maximum floor area of 120 sq ft.
Last verified: July 2026
View Westminster ordinance ↗Ordinances and zoning rules change. Confirm the current requirements with your municipality before buying birds or building a coop.
What the Westminster Rules Say
Westminster allows backyard hens at single-family detached properties with an approved city permit. Most residential properties may keep up to 6 hens. The city’s permit form lists an allowance of up to 12 chickens on properties of 2 acres or more.
The permit has a one-time $25 fee. Roosters are prohibited, and the chickens must be kept in the rear yard.
What This Means in Plain English
For a typical Westminster lot, plan for no more than 6 hens and one rear-yard coop. The coop must provide 6 square feet per bird, stay at or below 120 square feet in total floor area and 6 feet in height, and sit at least 10 feet from side and rear property lines.
The rear yard generally needs a privacy fence at least 6 feet high. Chickens must stay in the coop from dusk to dawn. They may use the rear yard during daylight when they cannot fly out.
Practical Considerations
Permit and Site Plan
Apply before acquiring chickens. Westminster requires a site plan with its livestock-permit application and advises allowing time for staff review.
HOA and Rental Rules
An approved city permit does not override an HOA restriction. Renters must obtain landlord approval in advance.
Sanitation and Feed
Remove excrement promptly and store chicken feed in a resealable, airtight, vermin-proof container. Fresh water must remain available in the rear yard.
Getting Started
- Confirm that the property is a qualifying single-family detached residence.
- Check HOA documents or obtain landlord approval when applicable.
- Plan one rear-yard coop at least 10 feet from side and rear property lines.
- Prepare the site plan and submit the permit with the $25 fee.
- Keep hens only and stay within the lot-size limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have chickens in Westminster, Colorado?
Yes. Westminster allows permitted hens at qualifying single-family detached properties.
How many hens can I keep?
Most properties may keep up to 6. The permit form lists up to 12 on lots of 2 acres or more.
Are roosters allowed?
No. Westminster allows female chickens only.
Next Steps for Westminster Chicken Keepers
Verification Notice
This page was last verified against Westminster's municipal code in July 2026. Ordinances change — always confirm current rules with your local city clerk before purchasing birds or building a coop.
View Westminster Municipal Code ↗Get Backyard Chicken Updates for Colorado
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