Chicken Laws by County in Montana
If you’ve been dreaming about raising chickens in Montana, you’re in good company. With wide-open spaces and a strong culture of self-sufficiency, the Big Sky State is ideal for backyard flocks. But here’s the kicker—chicken laws in Montana are governed locally, not statewide.
That means the rules about whether you can keep chickens, how many, and where, can change drastically depending on your city, town, or county. This guide breaks it all down by county so you can stay legal while enjoying those fresh, farm-to-table eggs.
Do You Need Permission to Keep Chickens in Montana?
Direct answer: In Montana, keeping chickens is generally permitted, especially in rural areas, but cities and towns often have specific ordinances regulating flock size, coop placement, and rooster ownership.
Here’s what’s typically enforced:
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No statewide chicken ban—regulations come from city or county ordinances.
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Roosters are commonly banned in residential zones.
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Setback requirements for coops and runs are often enforced in cities.
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Permits may be required in incorporated areas.
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HOA or subdivision rules may add further restrictions.
Need help figuring out how much coop space your birds will need? Use the chicken coop calculator for instant flock-based recommendations.
Chicken Laws by County in Montana
Below is a breakdown of how backyard chicken laws are handled across some of Montana’s most populous and commonly asked-about counties. Keep in mind that most towns within counties set their own rules, so you should always double-check with your local zoning office.
Yellowstone County
Direct answer: Chickens are allowed in most areas, but the city of Billings enforces specific regulations for backyard flocks.
Details:
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Billings allows up to 6 hens in residential zones, but roosters are not permitted.
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No permit is needed for small flocks, but coops must be kept clean and a minimum of 20 feet from neighboring homes.
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In unincorporated areas of the county, chickens are widely permitted without strict enforcement.
Missoula County
Direct answer: Chickens are allowed in both urban and rural zones, with the City of Missoula providing clear guidelines.
Details:
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Missoula allows up to six hens on lots less than one acre, and up to 12 hens on larger lots. No roosters allowed.
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A one-time permit and coop inspection are required.
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Coops must be at least 10 feet from property lines and 20 feet from homes.
Check your coop design against local standards using the chicken coop calculator to stay compliant.
Gallatin County
Direct answer: Chickens are generally permitted, but Bozeman and nearby towns have flock size and noise rules.
Details:
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Bozeman allows up to six hens per residential lot; roosters are prohibited.
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A $25 permit is required, renewable every 3 years.
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Coops must be predator-proof and follow setback rules (at least 10 feet from any structure).
Flathead County
Direct answer: Backyard chickens are allowed, with fewer restrictions in rural areas and light zoning in suburban zones.
Details:
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Kalispell permits chickens in residential areas—up to 5 hens per lot.
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Roosters are not allowed, and coops must be kept clean and odor-free.
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Rural Flathead County doesn’t typically enforce zoning laws for poultry unless complaints are filed.
Cascade County
Direct answer: Chickens are legal in most places, but Great Falls enforces urban-specific ordinances.
Details:
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Great Falls allows up to 6 hens, with a requirement for enclosed coops and no roosters.
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Permits may be required based on your zoning district.
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Coop must be at least 25 feet from neighboring dwellings.
Lewis and Clark County
Direct answer: Rural areas allow chickens freely, while the city of Helena has clear flock size limits and zoning rules.
Details:
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Helena allows up to 6 hens with a permit. Roosters are not allowed in residential zones.
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Coops must be placed 20 feet from any neighboring structure.
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Chickens must be kept enclosed and cannot roam freely outside fenced areas.
Ravalli County
Direct answer: Chickens are broadly permitted throughout the county, including in towns like Hamilton and Stevensville.
Details:
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Hamilton allows backyard chickens, but roosters may be restricted by neighborhood zoning.
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Most towns allow up to 10 hens with basic guidelines for cleanliness and coop setbacks.
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Rural residents usually face no restrictions unless within a subdivision or HOA.
Silver Bow County
Direct answer: Urban zones like Butte have backyard poultry rules, while rural areas are chicken-friendly by default.
Details:
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Butte allows residents to keep hens in residential areas—up to 5 hens, no roosters.
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Permits are optional, but cleanliness and noise complaints are enforced.
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Coops must be secure and set back at least 15 feet from neighboring homes.
Lake County
Direct answer: Chickens are widely allowed, especially outside the more densely populated towns.
Details:
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Polson allows small backyard flocks, typically 4–6 hens, with coop distance rules in place.
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Roosters may be prohibited depending on neighborhood noise ordinances.
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Rural landowners generally have full freedom to raise chickens without local restrictions.
What’s Common Across Montana’s Chicken Laws?
Most of Montana’s chicken ordinances follow the same basic structure, especially in incorporated towns:
| Rule Type | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Flock size | 4–6 hens in towns, more in rural zones |
| Roosters | Prohibited in urban areas |
| Coop setbacks | 10–25 feet from homes or property lines |
| Permit required | Often in cities, rarely in rural areas |
| Enclosure required | Chickens must be contained on property |
| Cleanliness enforcement | Mandatory across all municipalities |
Tips to Stay Compliant and Keep Your Chickens Happy
Want to raise chickens legally and without complaints? Here’s how to do it right:
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Always check your city or town’s ordinance first—don’t assume rural means no rules.
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Avoid roosters unless you’re outside of residential zones.
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Build your coop with space and ventilation in mind.
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Respect setbacks to avoid complaints and fines.
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Use the right coop size for your flock—calculate it with this chicken coop calculator to avoid overcrowding.
Conclusion: Backyard Chickens Are Welcome in Montana—If You Know the Rules
Montana is one of the most chicken-friendly states in the U.S., thanks to its wide-open spaces and agricultural roots. But even here, you’ll find zoning laws and residential rules that vary from town to town.
So whether you’re in Missoula or Miles City, make sure you’re in compliance before you get your first flock. Taking time to research your area’s rules will save you headaches—and keep your hens safe and legal.
Ready to build your coop? Use the chicken coop calculator to make sure your birds have the space they need and your coop meets local guidelines.
Fresh eggs, happy chickens, and a compliant backyard—what more could you ask for?
