Backyard Chicken Laws in Oregon: A Practical Guide
Raising backyard chickens in Oregon has become increasingly popular as residents seek sustainable food sources, fresh eggs, and greater self-sufficiency. But before you bring hens home, it’s important to understand the local laws. Oregon has a strong tradition of urban homesteading, yet chicken laws are governed at the city and county levels. What’s permitted in Portland might be prohibited in Salem or Bend.
Are Backyard Chickens Legal in Oregon?
Yes, backyard chickens are legal in many Oregon cities and towns, but each municipality sets its own rules regarding the number of chickens allowed, coop placement, permits, and whether or not roosters are permitted. State law does not restrict backyard chickens, but local zoning and nuisance laws do apply.
Always check your city or county’s planning department before investing in birds or building a coop.
Backyard Chicken Laws by Major Cities in Oregon
Portland
Portland is one of the most chicken-friendly cities in Oregon:
- You may keep up to 4 hens without a permit.
- Roosters are allowed but discouraged due to noise concerns.
- Coops must be kept clean, dry, and secure from predators.
- More than 4 chickens require a $31 annual permit from the Bureau of Development Services.
To plan a proper setup, use the Chicken Coop Calculator to ensure your birds have adequate space and your coop meets city codes.
Eugene
Eugene also supports backyard chickens with moderate regulations:
- Up to 6 hens allowed in residential zones.
- Roosters are not permitted.
- Chicken coops must be at least 10 feet from property lines.
- Manure and feed must be stored securely to prevent pests.
Salem
Salem permits backyard chickens, but zoning rules apply:
- Up to 5 hens allowed in residential zones without a permit.
- Roosters are banned.
- Flocks must be kept for personal use only; no egg sales allowed without a separate license.
- Coops must be kept clean and may not cause a public nuisance.
Bend
Bend allows chickens with straightforward regulations:
- 6 hens allowed on most residential properties.
- Roosters are prohibited in city limits.
- Coops must be at least 25 feet from any neighboring dwelling.
- Chicken waste must be removed regularly to avoid odor complaints.
Medford
Medford permits chickens in residential neighborhoods under the following conditions:
- Up to 6 hens are allowed; roosters are prohibited.
- A $15 annual permit is required.
- Coops must be kept in the backyard with a minimum 20-foot setback from adjacent dwellings.
- Chickens must not cause a noise or sanitation nuisance.
Smaller Towns and Rural Areas
In Oregon’s rural and unincorporated areas, chicken laws tend to be more lenient. Agricultural zoning usually allows larger flocks, roosters, and commercial egg production. However, even in rural areas, nuisance laws apply, so it’s still important to keep your flock well-maintained and secure.
Common Requirements for Chicken Owners in Oregon
Permits and Registration
Some cities, like Portland and Medford, require permits if you keep more than a set number of chickens. Others, like Eugene and Bend, do not require permits for small flocks. Always check your local ordinance before expanding your flock.
Flock Size Limits
Most Oregon cities allow between 4 and 6 hens without a special permit. Here’s a city-by-city comparison:
| City | Max Hens | Roosters Allowed? | Permit Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portland | 4 (unlimited with permit) | Yes (discouraged) | Yes (over 4) |
| Eugene | 6 | No | No |
| Salem | 5 | No | No |
| Bend | 6 | No | No |
| Medford | 6 | No | Yes |
Coop Regulations
Most cities in Oregon require coops to be:
- Located in the backyard or rear of the property
- Set back a certain distance from neighboring homes (usually 10–25 feet)
- Predator-proof and ventilated
- Free of waste buildup and odors
Use the Chicken Coop Calculator to plan the right dimensions and layout for your hens and your lot.
Sanitation and Nuisance Laws
Regardless of where you live in Oregon, you must keep your coop clean and odor-free. Local health departments and animal control agencies have the authority to intervene if chickens cause issues related to waste, pests, or noise.
Rooster Restrictions
Most Oregon cities ban roosters due to noise. Portland technically allows them, but complaints can result in enforcement actions under nuisance laws. If you’re in a rural zone, check your county rules before keeping a rooster.
Tips for Legal and Successful Chicken Keeping in Oregon
- Check your local zoning laws and HOA rules before bringing chickens home.
- Apply for permits if your city requires them—especially if you plan to keep more than the standard number of hens.
- Plan your coop carefully using the Chicken Coop Calculator to ensure proper space, sanitation, and legal placement.
- Stick to your city’s hen limit to avoid violations or complaints.
- Manage manure and waste responsibly to avoid health hazards or neighbor disputes.
- Educate your neighbors to build community support for your flock.
Why Cities Regulate Backyard Chickens
Chicken ordinances aren’t meant to discourage urban agriculture—they exist to protect public health and neighborhood relations. Laws help:
- Prevent noise disturbances from roosters or large flocks
- Control odor and pest problems from waste
- Ensure humane treatment and safe housing for birds
- Avoid conflicts between neighbors
Designing a Coop That Meets Oregon’s Standards
Building a compliant, efficient chicken coop is the first step to legal chicken keeping. The Chicken Coop Calculator helps you:
- Determine how much space each hen needs
- Calculate how many nesting boxes are required
- Design proper ventilation and roosting areas
- Ensure proper distance from neighbors and structures
Good coop planning keeps your birds healthy—and helps you stay within the law.
FAQs About Backyard Chickens in Oregon
Do I need a permit to raise chickens in Oregon?
In cities like Portland and Medford, yes—if you keep more than the basic limit. Other cities allow small flocks without permits.
Can I keep roosters in Oregon?
Most cities prohibit roosters in residential zones. Rural areas may allow them, but noise complaints can still lead to removal.
How many chickens can I legally keep?
Usually between 4 and 6 hens, depending on your city’s ordinances. Some cities allow more with a permit.
Can I sell eggs from my backyard flock?
Personal use is generally permitted. Selling eggs requires compliance with Oregon Department of Agriculture regulations and possible licensing.
What happens if I break chicken laws?
You could face fines, be forced to remove your flock, or lose your permit. Always follow local rules and respond to complaints quickly.
Conclusion
Oregon is one of the most chicken-friendly states in the U.S., but that doesn’t mean the rules are the same everywhere. Each city sets its own guidelines for backyard flocks, including how many hens you can keep, where your coop must go, and what kind of permit you may need.
Start by reviewing your local ordinance, then use the Chicken Coop Calculator to design a healthy, compliant setup. With a little planning, you can enjoy all the benefits of backyard chickens—without breaking a single rule.