Backyard Chickens in Hillsboro, Oregon

What the Hillsboro Rules Say

Hillsboro allows hens on qualifying single-family residential property with an approved livestock permit. The number allowed depends on lot size: 3 poultry on 7,000 to 10,000 square feet, 6 on more than 10,000 square feet through 1 acre, and 9 on properties larger than 1 acre.

Roosters and other male poultry are prohibited. Poultry may not be bred, and eggs, meat, or other livestock products may not be sold from the residential property.

What This Means in Plain English

For the smallest qualifying residential lot, use 3 hens as the working limit. Verify the lot area before relying on the 6- or 9-bird allowance.

Every part of the poultry enclosure must be behind the front plane of the house and at least 10 feet from every property line. The outdoor portion must provide at least 20 square feet per bird.

Practical Considerations

Permit Before Birds

Submit Hillsboro’s livestock-permit application and nonrefundable fee before acquiring chickens. The code says incomplete applications or applications without the required fee will be denied.

Feed and Waste

Store feed in waterproof containers with secure sides and lids. Feed and stored solid waste must remain behind the front building plane and at least 10 feet from property lines.

No Residential Slaughter or Sales

Hillsboro prohibits slaughtering or butchering livestock on residential property. It also prohibits selling eggs or other livestock products from the residence under this allowance.

Getting Started

1. Confirm that the property is single-family residential and measure its lot area.
2. Select the applicable 3-, 6-, or 9-bird limit.
3. Plan an enclosure behind the front building plane and 10 feet from every property line.
4. Provide at least 20 square feet of outdoor enclosure per bird.
5. Apply for the livestock permit and keep hens only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Hillsboro, Oregon?

Yes. Hillsboro allows hens on qualifying single-family residential property with an approved livestock permit.

How many hens can I keep?

The limit is 3, 6, or 9 depending on lot size. Properties between 7,000 and 10,000 square feet may keep up to 3.

Are roosters allowed in Hillsboro?

No. Roosters and other male poultry are prohibited.