Unincorporated King County allows up to 8 chickens on lots under 20,000 sq ft in RA and R zones per KCC 21A.30.020, more on larger parcels. Roosters are effectively restricted via noise complaints in dense areas.
King County Code 21A.30.020 regulates keeping of small livestock. On lots under 20,000 sq ft in Rural Residential (RA) and Residential (R) zones, up to 8 small animals (chickens, ducks, rabbits) are permitted by right. Larger lots allow more based on density: 1 animal per 2,000 sq ft on 20,000-35,000 sq ft lots, and unlimited with standard setbacks on RA-2.5 or larger parcels. Coops and runs must be set back at least 10 feet from property lines and 25 feet from dwellings on adjoining properties. Roosters are not outright prohibited but must comply with KCC 12.86 noise standards, which effectively prohibits roosters in dense residential zones due to nuisance complaints. Chickens for food production are allowed; the 4-H and FFA youth livestock exceptions permit additional animals for qualifying youth projects. Keeping livestock is subject to King County Public Health rules on sanitation and King County Regional Animal Services enforcement for animal welfare.
Civil infraction under KCC 23.02. Excess livestock orders typically give 30 days to reduce count. Rooster nuisance complaints can result in removal orders and fines up to 500 dollars per day.
King County, WA
In unincorporated King County, fences 6 feet or less in height may be built on or within property lines without a building permit. Fences over 6 feet require...
King County, WA
Unincorporated King County's marine shoreline along Puget Sound and Vashon-Maury Island is regulated under the Shoreline Management Act (RCW 90.58), the King...
King County, WA
In unincorporated King County, an above-ground pool that can hold water more than 24 inches deep is regulated as a swimming pool under the Washington State R...
King County, WA
In unincorporated King County, a one-story detached storage shed of 200 square feet or less, accessory to a residential or agricultural use, is exempt from a...
King County, WA
Unincorporated King County requires private swimming pools to be enclosed by a barrier at least five feet high under K.C.C. 16.70.020, with self-closing/self...
King County, WA
King County Ordinance 18467 (2017) limits county cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, and Washington's Keep Washington Working Act (RCW 10.93.16...
See how King County's chickens & livestock rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.