Arizona Chicken Laws: for Successful Keeping
Raising backyard chickens in Arizona is a popular choice for homesteaders, hobbyists, and egg-lovers alike. With plenty of sunshine and space, the desert is a surprisingly good place for poultry. But before you start building a coop or ordering chicks, you need to understand Arizona’s chicken laws, which can vary dramatically by city and county.
This complete guide breaks down Arizona chicken laws, including where they’re legal, how many you can keep, what permits you’ll need, and how to stay compliant.
Are Chickens Legal in Arizona?
Yes, chickens are legal in many parts of Arizona, but the laws vary depending on city, county, and zoning regulations. There is no statewide ban or blanket rule, so your local government determines whether you can raise chickens—and under what conditions.
What matters most:
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Local zoning ordinances (residential vs. agricultural)
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Lot size and property setbacks
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Number of chickens permitted
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Rooster regulations
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Whether a permit or inspection is required
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HOA restrictions (if applicable)
Chicken Laws by City and County in Arizona
Here’s a breakdown of chicken laws in major Arizona cities and counties. Keep in mind, HOAs and planned communities may have more restrictive policies than the local government.
1. Phoenix
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Allowed: Yes, in most residential zones
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Limit: No specific number stated, but lot size and coop size play a role
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Roosters: Not permitted
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Permit: Not required unless selling products
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Setback Rules:
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Coops must be at least 80 feet from neighboring residences
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If closer, a waiver must be signed by neighbors
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Tip: If you live on a standard-sized urban lot, getting neighbor approval may be necessary.
2. Tucson (Pima County)
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Allowed: Yes
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Limit: Up to 24 birds in residential zones (including hens, ducks, and pigeons)
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Roosters: Allowed in some zones, but may be prohibited if considered a nuisance
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Permit: Not required for personal flocks
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Other Notes:
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Chickens must be housed and cannot free-range
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Enclosures must be well-maintained and not cause odor or noise issues
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Tucson is among the most chicken-friendly cities in Arizona, especially in unincorporated Pima County.
3. Mesa
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Allowed: Yes
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Limit: Based on zoning and lot size
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Roosters: Not allowed
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Permit: May be required depending on property use
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Setback Requirements:
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Coop must be 40+ feet from adjacent residences
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Birds must be confined to the backyard
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Mesa allows chickens in residential zones but enforces distance and containment rules.
4. Scottsdale
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Allowed: Yes, in specific zones
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Limit: Varies by zoning classification (R1-35 and above are usually eligible)
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Roosters: Typically prohibited
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Permit: Required in some neighborhoods
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Other Rules:
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Coop must meet city sanitation standards
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Nuisance complaints can result in removal
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Scottsdale is more restrictive due to high-density residential areas and neighborhood aesthetics.
5. Chandler
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Allowed: Yes, in agricultural and some residential zones
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Limit: Generally up to 5 hens
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Roosters: Not allowed
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Permit: Sometimes required based on zoning
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Coop Rules:
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Must be in the rear yard
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Coop must be 20–40 feet from neighboring structures
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Check zoning maps before bringing in chickens—especially in newer developments.
6. Gilbert
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Allowed: Yes
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Limit: Up to 5 hens in most residential areas
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Roosters: Prohibited
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Permit: Not required for personal use
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Other Notes:
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Chickens must be kept in a fenced area
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No offensive odors or noise allowed
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Gilbert’s chicken laws are fairly straightforward but tightly enforced.
7. Glendale
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Allowed: Yes, with restrictions
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Limit: Up to 5 hens in residential areas
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Roosters: Not allowed
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Permit: Required in some zoning classifications
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Setbacks:
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Coop must be at least 20 feet from neighboring homes
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Chickens must stay confined and not be visible from the street
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Glendale code enforcement is strict about coop visibility and cleanliness.
Arizona Chicken Laws in Rural and Unincorporated Areas
In unincorporated areas like parts of Maricopa County, Pinal County, and Yavapai County, chicken ownership is usually more flexible.
Typical Rural Rules:
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No restrictions on flock size
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Roosters are allowed
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No permits required for personal flocks
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Coops must be secure and meet basic sanitation rules
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Commercial use (selling eggs/meat) may require registration or licensing
If you’re in an agricultural or rural-residential zone, you’ll likely have the most freedom.
Do You Need a Permit to Keep Chickens in Arizona?
It depends on your city and zoning. In most residential areas, if you’re keeping chickens for personal use, a permit is not required. However, some municipalities require you to:
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Obtain neighbor approval
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Register your coop
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Pass a site inspection
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Follow setback rules from homes, streets, and wells
For commercial use (selling eggs or meat):
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You’ll need to register with the Arizona Department of Agriculture
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Follow food safety and egg handling regulations
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Label products according to state rules
What Happens If You Break Chicken Laws?
If you violate chicken ordinances in Arizona, you may face:
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Fines (commonly $100–$500 depending on the city)
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Warnings or citations from code enforcement
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Removal orders if your chickens cause a nuisance
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HOA action, including legal fees and forced removal
To avoid penalties:
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Follow all coop, distance, and noise rules
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Keep chickens clean, contained, and out of sight
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Avoid roosters in residential zones
Are Chickens Allowed in Arizona HOAs?
Even if your city allows chickens, HOAs often do not.
HOAs (Homeowners Associations) have the authority to ban or limit backyard chickens regardless of local laws. Common restrictions include:
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No poultry of any kind
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Coop visibility or structure rules
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Flock size limits
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Noise and odor clauses
How to Deal with HOA Chicken Bans:
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Review your CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions)
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Try petitioning the board for an exemption
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Offer to build a low-visibility, odor-free coop
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Talk with neighbors to build support
Best Chicken Breeds for Arizona’s Hot Climate
Arizona’s dry heat can be brutal in summer, so you need heat-tolerant chicken breeds that stay productive and comfortable.
Ideal Breeds for Arizona:
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Leghorns – Slim build, great in heat, prolific layers
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Easter Eggers – Heat-hardy and lay colorful eggs
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Rhode Island Reds – Dual-purpose and weather-tolerant
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Orpingtons – Friendly and good in variable climates
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Anconas – Active and thrive in hot environments
Coop Tips for Arizona:
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Provide constant shade and airflow
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Install misters or fans in extreme heat
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Use deep litter method to control odor and moisture
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Ensure 24/7 access to clean, cool water
Conclusion
Arizona is a great state for raising backyard chickens—but only if you follow your city’s laws, zoning rules, and coop requirements. Urban areas like Phoenix and Tucson allow hens under certain conditions, while rural regions offer much more freedom. Roosters are almost always banned in residential zones, and HOAs can override local laws.
Start by checking your local zoning map, talking to your city planning office, and reviewing any HOA documents. With the right setup and legal approval, you can enjoy fresh eggs and the satisfaction of raising your own flock—all legally and stress-free.
Thinking of starting your own backyard flock? Know the law, prep your coop, and get ready to enjoy the rewards of chicken-keeping in Arizona.
