Corpus Christi, TX Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Chickens Allowed
- Up to 7, no permit needed
- Roosters
- Prohibited
- Pen Setback
- 25 feet from dwellings
- Other Livestock
- 100 feet from dwellings
- Beekeeping
- Permitted
Summary
Corpus Christi allows up to 7 chickens (no roosters, no permit) for personal eggs under Sec. 6-154. Other livestock need 100-foot setbacks from dwellings and 25 feet from lot lines.
Sec. 142.003. DISCOVERY OF ESTRAY; NOTICE. (a) If an estray, without being herded with other livestock, roams about the property of a person without that person's permission or roams about public property, the owner of the private property or the custodian of the public property, as applicable, shall, as soon as reasonably possible, report the presence of the estray to the sheriff of the county in which the estray is discovered. (b) After receiving a report under Subsection (a) of this section that an estray has been discovered on private property, the sheriff or the sheriff's designee shall notify the owner, if known, that the estray's location has been reported.
Full Breakdown
Corpus Christi Code of Ordinances Section 6-154 permits residents to keep up to 7 domestic fowl (chickens) for personal egg production only -- commercial sale of eggs is prohibited. Roosters are not allowed. No permit is required for chickens. The henhouse must be at least 5 feet wide, 5 feet tall, and 5 feet long. Chickens also need a secure fenced enclosure at least 6 feet high with a maximum footprint of 20 by 20 feet. The chicken pen must be at least 25 feet from any existing dwelling or business.
Wings must be kept clipped. Keepers must maintain the coop and pen in a manner that prevents odor and sanitation problems, and any illness or death must be reported to local health authorities. For other livestock such as horses, cattle, goats, and pigs, enclosures must be at least 100 feet from any existing dwelling or business building, 500 feet from food service or processing establishments, and 25 feet from any residential property line. Beekeeping is permitted under the animal care ordinance since a 2004 amendment. Contact Animal Care Services at (361) 826-4630 for questions.
Violations & Fines
Livestock violation: fines up to $500 per offense. Nuisance conditions from odor or unsanitary keeping: code compliance notice with correction period. Animals may be impounded.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many chickens can I keep in Corpus Christi?
Can I keep goats or other livestock?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Corpus Christi
How Corpus Christi compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Corpus Christi to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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