Backyard Chickens in Fort Worth, Texas

What the Fort Worth Ordinance Says

Fort Worth publishes a plain-English city page for roosters and fowl. The city allows fowl, with the number depending on lot size:

• Lots of one-half acre or less: up to 12 fowl, with no more than two roosters
• More than one-half acre but less than one acre: up to 25 fowl, with no more than two roosters
• More than one acre: up to 50 fowl, with no more than two roosters

Fort Worth also says all roosters and fowl must be contained in a pen or coop at all times. Pens and coops must be cleaned daily and must be more than 50 feet from any regulated structure.

The city defines regulated structures to include another residence or human habitation structure, restaurants, churches, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, residential treatment facilities, daycares, medical or dental facilities, hotels, motels, and similar lodging facilities.

What This Means in Plain English

Fort Worth is chicken-friendly compared with many large cities. A typical residential lot of one-half acre or less may keep up to 12 fowl, and roosters are allowed, but no more than two.

The two biggest practical requirements are containment and distance. Birds must stay in a pen or coop, and that enclosure must be more than 50 feet from regulated structures. That distance requirement may be hard on small urban lots.

Practical Considerations

Roosters

Fort Worth allows up to two roosters, but noise rules still apply. The city says it is unlawful to keep a rooster or other animal that creates a frequent, repetitive, or continuous sound for 10 minutes or longer.

Lot Size

The number of fowl allowed changes by acreage. Do not assume the 25- or 50-fowl limits apply unless your lot size qualifies.

Daily Cleaning

Fort Worth specifically says pens and coops must be cleaned daily. This is stricter than many city pages and should be emphasized to readers.

Getting Started

1. Confirm your lot size.
2. Measure your proposed coop or pen location from nearby regulated structures.
3. Keep birds contained in a pen or coop at all times.
4. Plan for daily cleaning and sealed feed storage.
5. Think carefully before keeping roosters in a dense neighborhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Fort Worth, TX?

Yes. Fort Worth allows fowl, with the allowed number based on lot size.

How many chickens can I have in Fort Worth?

On lots of one-half acre or less, Fort Worth allows up to 12 fowl. Larger lots may allow up to 25 or 50 fowl depending on acreage.

Are roosters allowed in Fort Worth?

Yes. Fort Worth allows no more than two roosters, but noise rules still apply.