Backyard Chicken Laws in Utah: What You Need to Know Before You Start

Utah families across the state—from Salt Lake City to St. George—are discovering the joys of backyard chicken keeping. But before you order your chicks or build a coop, it’s essential to understand the legal side of things. Chicken ownership in Utah is not regulated at the state level but instead depends on your local municipality, zoning, and even your neighborhood’s HOA.

This guide covers everything you need to know to legally and confidently raise chickens in Utah—so you can enjoy fresh eggs without facing fines or complaints.

Is It Legal to Keep Chickens in Utah?

Yes, but it depends entirely on your local city or county regulations.

There is no statewide law that governs backyard chickens in Utah. Instead, cities and counties create their own rules based on zoning, property size, and urban planning goals. In general, chickens are more likely to be permitted in rural and suburban areas, while some urban centers allow them with restrictions.

Your first step should always be to check with your city planning or zoning department. And to make sure your coop design and flock size fit within local laws, try using the Chicken Coop Calculator—an easy tool that helps you build a legally compliant and bird-friendly setup.

Backyard Chicken Laws by City in Utah

Let’s break down how a few major Utah cities regulate backyard chickens:

City	Are Chickens Allowed?	Key Rules
Salt Lake City	Yes	Up to 15 hens; no roosters; permit required; coop must meet setback requirements
Provo	Yes	6 hens allowed; permit and site plan required
Ogden	Yes	Permitted with conditions; up to 6 hens; coop placement restrictions apply
St. George	Yes	Allowed with zoning approval; roosters not allowed in residential zones
West Valley City	Yes	Limit of 4 hens; permit required; coop setback from property lines required

While many Utah cities do allow chickens, don’t assume the rules are the same everywhere. Even within the same county, different towns may have their own ordinances. Always verify before building your coop.

Common Chicken Regulations Across Utah

Here are the most common rules you’ll find when it comes to backyard chickens in Utah:

1. Flock Size Limits

Most cities allow between 4 and 6 hens on residential properties. Salt Lake City is more generous with up to 15 hens on some lots. Roosters are typically prohibited due to noise concerns.

2. Coop Placement and Setbacks

You must place your coop a certain distance from property lines, neighbors’ homes, or streets. Common setbacks range from 10 to 25 feet. Use the coop distance estimator to visualize legal placement on your lot.

3. Permits and Zoning Approval

Many cities require a chicken permit or zoning approval. This often includes submitting a site plan and paying a small application fee. Permits may require annual renewal and periodic inspections.

4. Cleanliness and Nuisance Prevention

Chickens must be kept in clean conditions with no odors, excessive flies, or unsanitary waste. Coop cleaning should be done regularly, and food should be stored securely to avoid attracting pests.

5. Secure Housing

Hens must be housed in a secure coop or enclosed run. This protects them from predators and prevents them from wandering into neighbors’ yards. The chicken run size calculator can help you build a safe space that meets local standards.

How to Get Started With Chickens in Utah

Ready to begin your backyard chicken journey? Here’s a step-by-step process:

1. Contact your local zoning or planning office to learn specific rules for your address
2. Determine how many hens you’re allowed based on your lot size and zoning
3. Design a compliant coop and run using the coop planning tool
4. Submit a site plan and permit application if required
5. Build the coop and prepare a safe space for your chickens before bringing them home
6. Maintain good sanitation and be respectful of neighbors with noise and cleanliness

Backyard Chicken Etiquette: How to Be a Good Neighbor

Even if chickens are legal, being considerate makes all the difference. Here’s how to stay on good terms with the people next door:

• Skip the rooster: Hens are quiet and lay eggs without one.
• Keep your coop clean: Weekly cleaning prevents odor and flies.
• Use fencing: Prevent birds from wandering into neighboring yards.
• Talk to your neighbors: Let them know your plans upfront to build trust.
• Limit visibility and noise: Place your coop out of direct sightlines and avoid early-morning clucking near bedrooms.

What If Chickens Aren’t Allowed in Your City?

If your local laws prohibit chickens, don’t give up just yet. Many Utah communities have revised their ordinances in recent years. Here’s how you can push for change:

1. Gather support from neighbors: Show city officials that responsible chicken keeping is a community interest.
2. Attend city council or planning meetings: Be polite, informed, and present a well-reasoned case.
3. Use tools like the chicken coop planner to present a professional and clean setup proposal.

Many cities are open to change—especially if you come prepared with data, support, and a responsible plan.

Why Chickens Are Popular in Utah

Utah residents are drawn to chickens for a variety of reasons. Here’s why this backyard hobby is booming:

• Egg self-sufficiency: Fresh eggs daily, right from your yard
• Sustainable living: Composting manure, eating scraps, and reducing food waste
• Family-friendly learning: Kids learn responsibility, biology, and where food comes from
• Backyard entertainment: Chickens are fun to watch and surprisingly personable

With Utah’s open spaces, mild climate, and strong DIY culture, it’s no wonder backyard chickens are on the rise. Just make sure to do it legally—and smartly. That starts with using the Chicken Coop Calculator to plan a flock that matches your space and local laws.

Common Chicken-Keeping Myths in Utah

Here are a few common myths—debunked—to help you start with clarity:

Myth	Reality
Hens need roosters to lay eggs	False. Hens lay eggs without roosters.
Chickens smell bad	Only if you don’t clean the coop regularly.
They’re noisy	Roosters are loud, but hens are quiet and low-key.
Chickens attract rodents	Only if you leave food out and don’t clean up waste.

Conclusion

Raising backyard chickens in Utah is not only possible—it’s encouraged in many communities. But to do it legally and respectfully, you need to understand your local laws, follow zoning rules, and design your setup with care. Whether you live in Salt Lake City or a rural township, the right planning makes all the difference.

Want help building your perfect setup? Visit the Chicken Coop Calculator to design a coop that’s compliant, predator-proof, and perfectly sized for your space.

Start your backyard chicken journey with confidence—plan your flock today and raise happy, healthy hens the smart way.