Are Chickens Allowed in Tulsa City Limits?

BySusan Medlin

Yes — you can keep chickens in many parts of Tulsa city limits, but there are regulations depending on zoning, how many birds you have, and how your coop is built and placed. Roosters face tighter restrictions. Below is a detailed breakdown of the rules and what they mean for residents.

Tulsa Ordinances on Chickens

  • Tulsa’s Animal Ordinance (Title 2, Section 200) sets out rules for poultry depending on zoning.
  • Agricultural zones (AG): Chickens must be kept in pens or buildings at least 100 feet from any property line.
  • Non-agricultural zones: Residents may keep up to six adult chickens and 14 chicks (under eight weeks old). Coops must be at least 50 feet from any adjoining residence.
  • All coops must have cleanable floors, be sanitary, and include screened openings to limit flies and pests.

Why Zoning Matters

  • AG (Agricultural) zones: Offer the most flexibility for keeping poultry, but require large setbacks (100 feet).
  • AG-R (Agricultural-Residential) zones: Allow limited poultry but often require larger lot sizes (commonly one acre or more).
  • Standard residential zones: Stricter rules apply, including limits on flock size, coop setbacks, and sanitation requirements.

How Many Chickens Can You Keep?

  • In non-agricultural zones: up to six adult chickens and 14 chicks under eight weeks old.
  • In AG or AG-R zones: larger flocks may be allowed, provided you meet setbacks and sanitation requirements.
  • Regardless of zoning, all poultry must be confined within your property in a coop or fenced enclosure.

Coop and Location Requirements

The city has clear rules about where and how coops must be built:

  • In residential zones, coops must be at least 50 feet from any neighbor’s house.
  • In AG zones, coops must be at least 100 feet from property lines.
  • All coops must be predator-proof, sanitary, and easy to clean.
  • Ventilation openings must be screened to prevent flies and vermin.
  • Feed and waste must be stored and managed to avoid attracting rodents or causing odors.

Are Roosters Allowed?

Roosters are generally not allowed in most residential areas of Tulsa due to noise concerns. In AG or AG-R zones, roosters may be possible, but neighbors can file complaints if they become a nuisance.

Why These Rules Exist

  • Noise control: Roosters are noisy, and even hens can disturb close neighbors.
  • Odor and pests: Poorly maintained coops can attract flies, rodents, and produce strong odors.
  • Public health: Rules ensure waste management and sanitation to protect residents.
  • Neighborhood consistency: Poultry rules help balance urban living with small-scale agriculture.

Checklist Before You Get Chickens

  1. Check your zoning classification. Use Tulsa’s zoning maps or contact the Planning Department to confirm whether you’re in AG, AG-R, or standard residential zoning.
  2. Measure your lot and setbacks. Ensure your coop can be built at least 50 or 100 feet from the required points.
  3. Design your coop properly. Include secure fencing, predator protection, screened ventilation, and easy-to-clean flooring.
  4. Review HOA or neighborhood rules. Subdivisions often have their own restrictions, which can be stricter than city law.
  5. Be considerate of neighbors. Keep your coop clean, control noise, and make sure your hens do not roam outside your property.

Common Misconceptions

  • “You can keep unlimited chickens in Tulsa.” — Not true; most zones limit the number to six adult hens plus chicks.
  • “Roosters are fine if I keep them quiet.” — Not true; roosters are generally prohibited in residential zones.
  • “If I only keep hens, there are no rules.” — Not true; coop setbacks, sanitation, and number limits still apply.

Conclusion

Chickens are allowed in Tulsa city limits, but rules vary depending on zoning and location. In most residential areas, you can keep up to six hens and 14 chicks, as long as your coop is 50 feet from neighboring homes and maintained properly. Agricultural zones allow more chickens, but require 100-foot setbacks. Roosters are generally not permitted in residential zones. Always check your property’s zoning and local rules before setting up a backyard flock.