Chicken Zoning Laws in Montana: A Guide for Backyard Flock Owners

Raising backyard chickens in Montana is a practical way to enjoy fresh eggs and live more sustainably. But even in a state known for its agricultural roots and wide-open spaces, local zoning laws still apply. If you’re planning to keep chickens, it’s crucial to understand the specific rules in your city or county.

Can You Legally Keep Chickens in Montana?

Yes, you can keep chickens in most of Montana—but the rules vary depending on where you live. Rural areas are typically very flexible, while cities like Billings, Missoula, or Bozeman may have zoning laws that limit how many chickens you can keep or where you can build a coop.

Montana supports homesteading and small-scale farming, but even so, you’ll want to check with your local zoning or planning department before starting a flock.

Why Chicken Zoning Laws Matter in Montana

Zoning laws in Montana help manage the balance between rural freedoms and urban development. These laws address concerns like noise, odor, property values, and neighbor relations. Common regulations include:

• Limits on the number of chickens based on lot size
• Prohibitions on roosters in residential zones
• Minimum setbacks for coops and runs
• Permit or registration requirements
• Sanitation and pest control standards

Understanding these rules ahead of time can save you from fines, neighbor disputes, or even being forced to rehome your chickens.

Chicken Laws in Major Montana Cities

Billings

Billings allows residents to keep up to 6 hens with a permit. Roosters are not allowed in residential zones. Coops must be placed in the backyard and be at least 20 feet from neighboring residences. Chickens must be kept in a secure enclosure at all times.

Missoula

Missoula permits up to 6 hens in residential areas. Roosters are prohibited. A permit is required, and coops must be located at least 10 feet from property lines. The city may also require an inspection to ensure proper sanitation and coop design.

Bozeman

In Bozeman, residents may keep up to 6 hens with a city license. Roosters are not permitted. Coops must be set back at least 25 feet from any residential structure on an adjacent lot. Chickens must be kept in a clean, enclosed area at all times.

Great Falls

Great Falls allows backyard chickens under certain conditions. A permit is required, and hens must be confined to a coop or fenced area. Roosters are banned in residential neighborhoods, and setback rules vary based on zoning.

Helena

Helena permits up to 6 hens per household with a permit. Coops must be kept clean and follow a 25-foot setback from neighboring structures. Roosters are not allowed in city limits.

How to Find Out Your Local Chicken Laws

To know your rights and responsibilities as a chicken owner in Montana, follow these steps:

• Visit your city or county government website
• Search for terms like “urban chickens,” “zoning,” or “animal ordinance”
• Contact your local zoning or planning department directly
• Ask about permits, setback requirements, and flock limits

If your area doesn’t have clear chicken regulations, call the city clerk or planning office to clarify what’s allowed.

Do You Need a Permit for Chickens in Montana?

In most cities in Montana, yes—you’ll need a permit to legally keep chickens. This usually includes:

• A completed application and permit fee (typically $25–$50)
• A site plan showing your coop location
• Compliance with setback and sanitation rules
• Occasional inspections (in some areas)

In rural areas or unincorporated communities, permits may not be required, but it’s still best to confirm before you build a coop or buy birds.

Are Roosters Allowed in Montana?

Roosters are typically banned in residential zones due to noise complaints. However, they may be allowed in agriculturally zoned or rural areas. If you’re planning to keep a rooster, make sure your property is zoned for it and that neighbors are okay with the early morning crowing.

Building a Zoning-Compliant Chicken Coop

To legally keep chickens in Montana, your coop must follow local codes and provide a safe, healthy environment for your flock. Key features of a compliant coop include:

• 3–4 square feet of indoor space per hen
• 8–10 square feet of outdoor run space per hen
• Secure fencing to keep out predators
• Proper ventilation and drainage
• Setbacks of 10–25 feet from property lines or residences

Use ChickenCoopCalculator.com to calculate the ideal coop size for your space and flock. This tool helps ensure your setup meets zoning laws and animal welfare standards from the start.

Tips for Raising Chickens Legally and Responsibly

Whether you’re new to chickens or an experienced keeper, follow these tips to stay compliant and keep neighbors happy:

• Keep your coop clean and odor-free
• Use secure, predator-proof enclosures
• Store feed in sealed containers
• Don’t let your chickens wander into neighboring yards
• Use Chicken Coop Calculator to design an efficient, legal setup

Being a respectful chicken keeper makes it more likely your city will continue to support urban poultry ownership.

What If Chickens Aren’t Allowed in Your Area?

If chickens are not currently allowed in your town or city, you still have options:

• Apply for a zoning variance if available
• Petition your city council to revise outdated ordinances
• Join a local urban farming group to build public support

Many cities in Montana have changed their rules in response to citizen advocacy. Presenting a strong case with examples from other towns can help influence your local decision-makers.

Urban vs. Rural Chicken Keeping in Montana

In rural Montana, chicken keeping is often unregulated. You may not need a permit and can likely keep more chickens—including roosters. In urban and suburban areas, however, zoning rules are more strict to protect neighbors and manage land use.

Using tools like the ChickenCoopCalculator.com can help ensure your coop design works for both types of environments, adjusting for space, flock size, and compliance.

Summary: Chicken Laws in Montana

Here’s what to remember when raising chickens in Montana:

• Check your city or county zoning laws before getting started
• Apply for a permit if required
• Design your coop to meet setbacks, space, and sanitation standards
• Roosters are typically not allowed in residential zones
• Use ChickenCoopCalculator.com to build a compliant and efficient setup

With the right preparation, raising backyard chickens can be legal, easy, and incredibly rewarding in Montana.

Conclusion

Backyard chickens in Montana are a great way to enjoy fresh eggs and take control of your food source—but only if you follow local zoning laws. From urban permits to rural freedom, the rules can vary, so don’t skip your homework.

Take advantage of resources like ChickenCoopCalculator.com to plan your flock the right way. With a bit of effort up front, you’ll enjoy years of healthy, happy hens and a coop that’s both legal and neighbor-approved.