Backyard Chickens in Beaverton, Oregon

What the Beaverton Rules Say

Beaverton Municipal Code Chapter 5.09 allows urban chickens under specific conditions. Qualifying properties must be at least 5,000 square feet and occupied by a detached single-family dwelling or duplex.

The city allows up to 4 hens per property. Roosters are prohibited, and residential slaughter is also prohibited.

What This Means in Plain English

Backyard hens are allowed in Beaverton if your property qualifies. The default flock size is small: no more than 4 hens.

Beaverton’s rules are detailed enough that coop placement matters. The enclosure cannot be between the dwelling and the front property line, and it must be at least 20 feet from any neighboring dwelling.

Practical Considerations

Property Eligibility

Check your lot size and housing type first. The urban chicken rules are written for qualifying detached single-family dwellings or duplexes on lots of at least 5,000 square feet.

Tenant Permission

If you rent, get written permission from the property owner before keeping chickens.

Enclosure Standards

Chickens must be in a secure enclosure at night. During the day they must either be in a secure enclosure or directly supervised in a fenced yard. Enclosures must be clean, dry, odor-free, in good repair, and resistant to rodents and predators.

Getting Started

1. Confirm your property is at least 5,000 square feet and otherwise eligible.
2. Keep no more than 4 hens.
3. Do not keep roosters.
4. Place the enclosure outside the front-yard area and at least 20 feet from neighboring dwellings.
5. Avoid commercial egg sales, breeding, fertilizer production, and residential slaughter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Beaverton?

Yes, if your property meets Beaverton’s Chapter 5.09 requirements.

How many hens can I have in Beaverton?

Beaverton allows up to 4 hens per qualifying property.

Are roosters allowed in Beaverton?

No. Beaverton prohibits roosters.