Backyard chickens are legal throughout Utah, but regulations vary significantly by city. Utah has no statewide ban on chickens, but local ordinances govern how many hens you can keep, coop requirements, and whether permits are needed. Here’s what every flock owner must know.
Roosters Are Banned in All Residential Zones
No roosters are allowed in any residential zone across Utah cities. This includes Salt Lake City, Ogden, West Jordan, and most municipalities. Crowing hens are also prohibited because they make noise similar to roosters. Chickens are not considered household pets but are permitted for egg production in residential areas.
Number of Hens Allowed Varies by City
Each Utah city sets its own limits on flock size:
For eggs-only production, chickens are allowed in all residential zones, but some cities restrict animal keeping to agricultural zones (A-1, A-S, R1-15).
Coop and Enclosure Requirements
Utah cities have strict coop standards to prevent nuisance and health issues:
| Requirement | Standard |
|---|---|
| Coop location | Rear yard only, 20-25 feet from neighboring homes |
| Space per chicken | 2 sq ft minimum (6 sq ft if not allowed outside coop) |
| Enclosure type | Covered, ventilated, predator-resistant, fully enclosed |
| Roaming | Chickens must not roam outside coop or enclosed area |
| Sanitation | Coops must be maintained in clean, sanitary condition |
Feed Storage and Nuisance Prevention
Chicken feed must be stored in rodent-proof and predator-proof containers. Owners must prevent public nuisance by:
- Keeping food secure from rodents and wildlife
- Removing spillage and leftover food daily
- Maintaining coops free from objectionable odors and waste
Permit and Licensing Requirements
Most Utah cities require permits for backyard chickens:
- Salt Lake City: $75 permit (regardless of bird count), annual renewal, inspection required
- Ogden: $5 per chicken annual license, land use permit showing coop location and distances to adjacent homes
- Permits are typically valid for one year and renewable annually
Eggs Cannot Be Sold
Eggs and fertilizer produced by backyard chickens are for family consumption only — selling eggs or manure is prohibited in most cities including Ogden.
Key Takeaway
Before raising chickens, check your city’s specific ordinance since requirements vary. Most Utah cities allow 5-15 hens with no roosters, require permits and coops in rear yards, and mandate strict sanitation standards. Fail to comply, and you could face fines or be forced to remove your flock.
SOURCES:
- https://www.slc.gov/sustainability/local-food/backyard-chickens-in-salt-lake-city/
- https://www.utah.gov/pmn/files/1411621.pdf
