Chicken Laws Oregon Eugene

Backyard Chickens in Eugene, Oregon

Chickens are legal in Eugene — here's exactly what the ordinance requires.

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What the Eugene Rules Say

Eugene Code Section 9.5250 regulates urban animal keeping. Where the use is allowed, lots under 20,000 square feet may keep up to 6 chickens or domestic fowl over 6 months old, plus up to 6 under 6 months old. Larger lots use an area-based standard.

Roosters are prohibited. The code also requires fencing to confine animals on site, weather shelter, sanitation controls, and setback rules for animal shelters.

What This Means in Plain English

Backyard hens are allowed in Eugene where zoning allows urban animal keeping. For many residential lots under 20,000 square feet, the practical adult flock limit is 6 hens.

Before you build, verify that your parcel allows urban animal keeping. The city code ties the rule to zoning, so parcel-specific conditions can matter.

Practical Considerations

Shelter Setbacks

Animal shelter structures must be at least 10 feet from all property lines unless the adjacent owner gives written authorization for a closer location.

Sanitation and Odor

Eugene requires sanitation practices that prevent waste buildup and odors beyond the property line. Compost containing animal waste must be enclosed or covered and kept at least 5 feet from property lines.

No Roosters

Roosters are prohibited. Keep a hen-only flock and avoid noise issues that could create enforcement problems.

Getting Started

  1. Confirm that urban animal keeping is allowed for your parcel.
  2. Keep no more than 6 adult chickens or domestic fowl on lots under 20,000 square feet.
  3. Do not keep roosters.
  4. Place shelters at least 10 feet from property lines unless written authorization applies.
  5. Use fencing, covered shelter, rodent-proof feed storage, and sanitation controls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Eugene?

Yes, if your property allows urban animal keeping and you follow Eugene Code Section 9.5250.

How many hens can I have in Eugene?

On lots under 20,000 square feet, Eugene allows up to 6 chickens or domestic fowl over 6 months old, plus up to 6 younger birds.

Are roosters allowed in Eugene?

No. Eugene prohibits roosters.

Matched next steps

Recommended Setup for Eugene's Rules

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Verification Notice

This page was last verified against Eugene's municipal code in May 2026. Ordinances change — always confirm current rules with your local city clerk before purchasing birds or building a coop.

View Eugene Municipal Code ↗

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