Backyard Chicken Laws in North Dakota: What You Need to Know
Raising backyard chickens in North Dakota is an increasingly popular way to enjoy fresh eggs, sustainable living, and even a little rural charm—right from your own backyard. But before you buy chicks or build a coop, it’s important to understand the local laws that govern urban and suburban chicken keeping.
Are Backyard Chickens Legal in North Dakota?
Yes, backyard chickens are legal in many areas of North Dakota, but the rules vary widely by city, township, and even by neighborhood. While the state itself doesn’t impose restrictions, local ordinances determine how many chickens you can keep, whether roosters are allowed, and what type of coop is acceptable.
Always check with your local city hall or zoning office to confirm what’s legal in your area before setting up your flock.
Backyard Chicken Laws by City in North Dakota
Fargo
Fargo permits backyard chickens but has clear regulations:
- Up to 4 hens are allowed per residential lot.
- Roosters are strictly prohibited.
- A $10 annual permit is required through the city’s animal control department.
- Coops must be located in the rear yard and set back at least 10 feet from any property line.
To help plan a coop that fits the requirements, use the Chicken Coop Calculator and get the dimensions right before you build.
Bismarck
Bismarck is chicken-friendly, but has specific zoning laws:
- Residents can keep up to 6 hens in residential zones.
- Roosters are not allowed due to noise ordinances.
- A city-issued permit is required before chickens can be kept.
- Coops must be predator-proof, ventilated, and regularly cleaned.
Grand Forks
Grand Forks allows chickens with proper registration:
- Up to 6 hens allowed; no roosters.
- Must register with the city and submit a coop design plan.
- Coops must be at least 25 feet away from any neighboring home.
- Eggs must be for personal use only—commercial sales are not allowed without a separate license.
Minot
Minot has more restrictive chicken laws:
- Chickens are generally only permitted in agriculturally zoned properties.
- Residential chicken keeping requires a variance or special use permit.
- Coops must be well-maintained and odor-free.
Smaller Towns and Rural Areas
In smaller North Dakota towns or unincorporated areas, the laws tend to be more relaxed. Many rural residents raise chickens freely, but nuisance laws still apply. If your flock creates noise, odor, or health issues, the city or county can intervene—even if you live outside city limits.
Typical Legal Requirements Across North Dakota
Permits and Registration
In most urban areas of North Dakota, keeping chickens legally requires a permit. This may include a small fee, a review of your coop plans, and an annual renewal. Rural residents often don’t need permits but should still verify their zoning status.
Flock Size Limits
The number of chickens you can keep depends on local ordinances. Here’s a quick summary of common city limits:
| City | Max Hens | Roosters Allowed? | Permit Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fargo | 4 | No | Yes |
| Bismarck | 6 | No | Yes |
| Grand Forks | 6 | No | Yes |
| Minot | Varies (agricultural zones) | Varies | Yes |
Coop Placement and Design
Coops must meet both legal and safety standards. General rules include:
- Rear yard placement only
- Minimum distance from property lines (usually 10–25 feet)
- Secure against predators and weather
- Clean, well-ventilated, and odor-controlled
Use the Chicken Coop Calculator to get exact spacing, nesting box count, and layout recommendations that meet local codes.
Waste Management
All cities require chicken owners to manage droppings responsibly. This means:
- Regular cleaning of the coop
- Composting manure or disposing of it properly
- Preventing buildup that attracts pests or creates odors
Improper sanitation is one of the fastest ways to receive a citation or neighbor complaints.
Tips for Keeping Chickens Legally and Responsibly
To stay compliant and maintain a happy, healthy flock, follow these best practices:
- Check your city code before buying any birds.
- Apply for necessary permits and keep documentation current.
- Design your coop using the Chicken Coop Calculator to ensure legal placement and adequate space.
- Stick to the flock size limit and avoid adding extra birds “just for now.”
- Be a good neighbor by managing noise and smell proactively.
- Never keep roosters unless you’re zoned for agricultural use.
Why North Dakota Enforces Chicken Ordinances
While many residents see chickens as harmless, cities enact regulations to protect the health and safety of the community. Chicken laws help prevent:
- Noise disturbances from crowing roosters
- Odors and pests from unsanitary conditions
- Predator attraction, such as foxes or raccoons
- Neighbor disputes over shared property boundaries
When managed correctly, chickens can be an enjoyable, educational, and sustainable addition to your home without disrupting the neighborhood.
Planning Your Coop to Stay Legal
Good planning prevents problems. A well-designed coop will help you meet legal standards and provide your hens with a safe, healthy home. The Chicken Coop Calculator is a free tool that helps you:
- Calculate the square footage required per bird
- Determine how many nesting boxes and roosting bars you need
- Plan your coop’s dimensions and placement
- Avoid legal pitfalls like violating setback distances
FAQs About Chickens in North Dakota
Can I keep chickens in my backyard in North Dakota?
Yes, in many cities you can keep a limited number of hens if you follow local regulations and apply for a permit where required.
Do I need a permit to keep backyard chickens?
In most urban areas like Fargo and Bismarck, yes. Permits are often inexpensive and easy to obtain if you meet coop and zoning rules.
Are roosters allowed in North Dakota cities?
No, roosters are usually banned in residential zones due to their noise. They may be allowed in rural or agriculturally zoned areas.
How many chickens can I have?
Flock size limits range from 4 to 6 hens in most cities. Always confirm with your local code enforcement office.
Can I sell eggs from my chickens?
Backyard chickens are typically limited to personal egg production. Selling eggs may require a separate license or health department approval.
Conclusion
Raising backyard chickens in North Dakota can be a rewarding and sustainable lifestyle—but only if you follow the rules. Each city has its own ordinances, so it’s critical to do your research, get the necessary permits, and plan your coop properly.
Whether you live in Fargo or a rural township, start with your local zoning laws and use the Chicken Coop Calculator to design a legal and comfortable coop that keeps your hens happy and your neighbors complaint-free.