Are Chickens Allowed in Denver, Colorado? Guide

Denver’s Food-Producing Animal Ordinance

In 2012, Denver City Council enacted the Urban Livestock Ordinance, permitting residents to keep certain food-producing animals, including chickens, within city limits. The ordinance aims to support urban agriculture while ensuring public health and safety. Key provisions include:

• Permit Requirement: Residents must obtain a Food-Producing Animal (FPA) permit from Denver Animal Protection. This permit costs a one-time fee of $25 and is valid for life at the registered address.
• Number of Animals: The permit allows for the keeping of up to eight hens (no roosters) or ducks, or any combination thereof, not to exceed eight animals in total.
• Enclosure Standards: The chickens must be housed in a secure, well-ventilated coop that provides adequate space and protection from predators. The enclosure should be located in the rear 50% of the property and must be at least 15 feet from any neighboring dwelling or property line.
• Manure Management: A plan for the proper disposal or composting of chicken manure must be in place to prevent nuisances such as odors or attracting pests.

For detailed information and to apply for a permit, residents can visit the Denver Animal Protection website or contact their office directly.

Best Practices for Keeping Chickens in Denver

To ensure the health and well-being of your chickens and maintain good relations with neighbors, consider the following best practices:

• Coop Design: The chicken coop should provide at least 4 square feet of space per hen. It should be well-ventilated, insulated to protect against extreme temperatures, and secure to prevent predators from entering. The coop should also have nesting boxes (one for every 4-5 hens) and roosting bars.
• Free-Range Area: In addition to the coop, chickens benefit from a secure outdoor area where they can forage and exercise. This area should be enclosed with fencing that is at least 3.5 feet tall to prevent chickens from escaping and to keep predators out.
• Feeding and Watering: Provide a balanced diet appropriate for laying hens, including access to fresh water at all times. Supplement their diet with calcium to support egg production and shell strength.
• Health Monitoring: Regularly check your chickens for signs of illness or distress. Maintain a clean environment to prevent the spread of diseases and parasites.
• Winter Care: During cold months, ensure that the chickens have access to a dry, draft-free shelter. While chickens can tolerate cold temperatures, supplemental heat may be necessary during extreme cold spells.

Community Considerations

Maintaining positive relationships with neighbors is crucial when keeping chickens in an urban setting. To minimize potential conflicts:

• Noise Control: Roosters are prohibited in Denver due to their loud crowing. Keeping hens instead can help maintain peace in the neighborhood.
• Odor Management: Regularly clean the coop and manage manure to prevent unpleasant odors.
• Predator Prevention: Secure the chicken enclosure to prevent attracting predators, such as raccoons or stray dogs, which could cause disturbances or harm to the chickens.

Engaging with neighbors and addressing any concerns proactively can foster a supportive environment for backyard poultry keeping.

Benefits of Keeping Chickens

Raising chickens offers several advantages:

• Fresh Eggs: Enjoy a steady supply of fresh, home-laid eggs.
• Natural Pest Control: Chickens help reduce insect populations in the yard and garden.
• Organic Fertilizer: Chicken manure can be composted and used to enrich garden soil.
• Educational Opportunities: Teaching children responsibility and the origins of their food.
• Companionship: Chickens can be engaging and entertaining pets.

Challenges and Considerations

While keeping chickens can be rewarding, there are challenges to consider:

• Noise: Roosters are prohibited due to their crowing. Even hens can produce some noise, particularly during egg-laying or feeding times, which could become an issue with close neighbors.
• Space: Chickens need enough space to roam, and small backyards might not provide the adequate area needed to raise a healthy flock.
• Legal Compliance: Keeping chickens is subject to local council regulations. Failing to comply with zoning laws, coop size requirements, or other regulations could lead to fines.

Getting Started

If you’re interested in keeping chickens in Denver, follow these steps:

1. Check Local Regulations: Contact Denver Animal Protection to understand the specific regulations in your area.
2. Design Your Coop: Build a secure and comfortable chicken coop that complies with the city’s requirements.
3. Acquire Healthy Birds: Purchase healthy hens from a reputable supplier to avoid introducing diseases into your flock.
4. Provide Proper Care: Ensure that your chickens receive the proper care, including feeding, watering, and regular health checks.
5. Stay Informed: Keep up to date with any changes in regulations, especially those concerning biosecurity and animal welfare.

Conclusion

Raising chickens in Denver can be a rewarding and sustainable practice. By adhering to local regulations, ensuring the welfare of the birds, and implementing proper biosecurity measures, you can enjoy the benefits of backyard poultry keeping while contributing to a healthy and harmonious community. If you’re considering chickens, be sure to check with Denver Animal Protection and ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.