Texas Chicken Laws: What You Need to Know

Thinking about raising chickens in Texas? You’re not alone. With fresh eggs, natural pest control, and a fun hobby all rolled into one, backyard chickens are becoming a popular trend across the Lone Star State. But before you buy that first bag of feed or build a coop, there are some important legal rules you’ll need to follow.

This article breaks down Texas chicken laws in plain English—what’s allowed, what’s not, and how to stay on the right side of the law no matter where you live.

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Are Chickens Legal in Texas?

Yes, chickens are legal to keep in Texas, but local ordinances and HOA rules will determine exactly how many you can have, whether you can keep roosters, and how your coop must be set up.

Texas state law doesn’t ban chickens. In fact, the state supports agriculture and self-sufficiency. However, cities and counties regulate backyard poultry through zoning laws, health codes, and nuisance ordinances.

If you live in a rural area, you’ll likely face fewer restrictions. But if you’re in a suburban or urban neighborhood, you’ll need to check local regulations carefully before starting your flock.

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What Does Texas State Law Say About Backyard Chickens?

Texas law doesn’t directly regulate small-scale backyard poultry operations—but it does lay the groundwork for animal welfare, agriculture-related zoning, and property rights. Key areas of state regulation include:

However, the majority of chicken-related laws that will affect you come from your city or town ordinances.

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Local Chicken Ordinances in Major Texas Cities

Here’s how chicken laws vary across different Texas cities:

Houston, TX

• Allowed: Yes

• Number of Hens: No more than 30 if coops are 100+ feet from neighboring buildings

• Roosters: Allowed, but noise complaints can lead to removal

• Permit Required: No

• Setback Rules: 100 feet from neighbor’s house for more than 30 birds

Austin, TX

• Allowed: Yes

• Number of Hens: No specific limit, but must avoid creating a nuisance

• Roosters: Allowed, but often discouraged due to noise

• Permit Required: No

• Special Notes: Coop must be kept sanitary and not visible from the street in some zones

Dallas, TX

• Allowed: Yes

• Number of Hens: Up to 5 without special permits

• Roosters: Not explicitly banned, but noise violations apply

• Permit Required: Only if exceeding limits

• Distance Requirements: Coop must be 20 feet from any dwelling on adjacent lots

San Antonio, TX

• Allowed: Yes

• Number of Hens: Up to 8

• Roosters: Allowed, but same noise/nuisance rules apply

• Permit Required: No

• Coop Rules: Must be clean and maintained to avoid pests

Fort Worth, TX

• Allowed: Yes

• Number of Hens: No limit stated, but no more than 1 per 1,500 sq ft of lot

• Roosters: Allowed unless causing noise issues

• Permit Required: No

• Additional Rules: Enclosures must be kept sanitary and free from odor

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New State Law: HB 1686 and Backyard Chickens

In 2023, Texas passed House Bill 1686, which restricts cities and HOAs from outright banning backyard poultry. The law was created to protect individuals who want to raise chickens for personal use—especially during times of food insecurity or economic hardship.

Key Takeaways from HB 1686:

• Cities can’t ban up to 6 hens per household.

• Roosters can still be regulated or banned.

• Homeowners associations (HOAs) must allow a reasonable number of hens for personal egg consumption.

• Local governments can still impose reasonable regulations related to health, sanitation, and noise.

This means that even if you live in an HOA or city that previously banned chickens, you may now be legally allowed to keep up to six hens—as long as you follow health and safety guidelines.

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Do You Need a Permit to Keep Chickens in Texas?

Most small-scale backyard flocks in Texas do not require a permit. However, permits may be necessary if:

• You exceed the number of allowed birds

• You plan to sell eggs or poultry products

• You’re operating on commercial or agricultural land

If you’re in a rural area, you’re unlikely to need a permit. But in cities like Houston or Dallas, pushing the limits on flock size or coop placement could trigger enforcement.

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Are Roosters Legal in Texas?

Roosters are generally allowed in Texas, but many local ordinances restrict them due to noise.

Most cities will not outright ban roosters but will enforce nuisance and noise ordinances. If your rooster crows too loudly or too often, neighbors can file complaints, which may lead to:

• Fines

• Mandatory removal of the rooster

• Citations from animal control

Your best bet? Avoid roosters in suburban or urban neighborhoods unless you’ve confirmed it’s legal and your neighbors are cool with it.

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HOA Rules vs. City Ordinances in Texas

HOAs can enforce stricter rules than city governments—but not anymore when it comes to banning hens outright.

Under HB 1686, HOAs can’t completely ban residents from owning hens for personal use. However, they can still:

• Limit the number of chickens

• Prohibit roosters

• Regulate coop placement and size

• Enforce noise and sanitation rules

Always check your HOA’s bylaws and CC&Rs before setting up your coop. Violating HOA rules can lead to fines, legal disputes, or forced removal—even if the city allows your chickens.

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Tips for Raising Chickens Legally in Texas

1. Know Your City and HOA Rules

• Look up your city’s animal code or call the local planning department

• Review your HOA documents if applicable

2. Keep the Coop Clean

• Sanitation is key—nobody wants smells or pests

• Clean bedding, remove waste, and check for parasites

3. Avoid Roosters in the Suburbs

• Even if they’re legal, the noise can cause trouble

• Stick to hens if you want to keep things peaceful

4. Be Neighbor-Friendly

• Build attractive, quiet coops

• Share eggs with neighbors to build goodwill

5. Don’t Sell Without a License

• Selling eggs? You may need to register with the Texas Department of State Health Services

• Special rules apply for farmers markets, grocery sales, or meat production

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What Happens If You Violate Texas Chicken Laws?

Violating chicken laws—especially in cities—can lead to:

• Fines or citations

• Forced removal of your flock

• Lawsuits from HOAs or neighbors

• Revoked permits if applicable

In most cases, enforcement starts with a warning or complaint. If you fix the issue quickly (like relocating a coop or removing a rooster), you can often avoid penalties.

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Texas Chicken Law FAQ

Can I raise chickens in my backyard in Texas?
Yes, in most cases. Local ordinances and HOAs may regulate how many you can keep, where the coop goes, and whether roosters are allowed.

Is there a statewide limit on how many chickens I can have?
No, Texas doesn’t have a limit—but cities and HOAs might. New state law guarantees the right to have at least six hens.

Are roosters legal in Texas?
They’re legal under state law, but many cities restrict them due to noise. Always check local rules before keeping a rooster.

Do I need a license to sell eggs in Texas?
Yes, if you sell to the public or at markets. You may need to register with the Texas Department of State Health Services.

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Conclusion

Texas is one of the best states to raise backyard chickens—but only if you understand the legal landscape. From zoning ordinances to HOA restrictions, the laws can vary widely from one block to the next. Thanks to recent legislation, you now have the right to raise hens for personal use—but it’s still on you to follow local rules and be a good neighbor.

Thinking about starting your own flock? Check your local ordinances, build a clean and safe coop, and enjoy the benefits of backyard poultry—Texas style.