Albuquerque allows up to 15 hens (no roosters) on standard residential lots under ROA 1994 Chapter 9, subject to coop setback and sanitation rules.
Under ROA Chapter 9 (Animal Control), Albuquerque allows residents in R-A, R-1, and R-T zones to keep up to 15 female chickens (hens). Roosters are prohibited in residential zones due to noise. Coops must be at least 20 feet from any neighboring dwelling and 5 feet from any property line. Coop size must provide at least 4 square feet per bird. Waste must be managed to prevent odor and fly nuisance. Slaughter of chickens is allowed on the owner's property but must not be visible from public right-of-way. Larger livestock (goats, sheep, horses) are allowed only in RA (agricultural-residential) zones meeting minimum lot size standards, typically 1 acre. Bees are regulated separately and allowed with up to 4 hives in most residential zones.
Excess chickens or rooster complaints carry $50 first-offense fines escalating to $500. Coop setback violations trigger abatement orders. Sanitation nuisances can result in Animal Welfare seizure in extreme cases.
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