Dallas, TX Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Registration
- $25/year for 5+ birds
- Roosters
- Prohibited with limited exceptions
- Setback
- 20 feet from property line
- Code Section
- Chapter 7, §7-7.3
Summary
Dallas allows chickens on residential property. Flocks of 5 or more require a $25 annual registration. Roosters are prohibited within city limits with limited exceptions. Enclosures must be at least 20 feet from adjacent property lines.
Sec. 161.002. CARETAKER OF ANIMAL. (a) A person is subject to this chapter as the caretaker of an animal and is presumed to control the animal if the person:(1) is the owner or lessee of the pen, pasture, or other place in which the animal is located and has control of that place;(2) exercises care or control over the animal; or(3) has recorded a mark or brand for the animal under Chapter 144.(b) This section does not limit the care and control of an animal to any person.
Full Breakdown
Dallas allows residents to keep chickens. An annual $25 registration is required for flocks of 5 or more birds. Under Section 7-7.3 of the Dallas Code, it is an offense to own a live rooster on any premises within the city, with exceptions for premises where animal production is permitted under Section 51A-4.201, roosters exhibited at the State Fair, and those owned by government or educational institutions. Chicken enclosures must not be closer than 20 feet from an adjacent property line. Enclosures must be maintained to avoid offensive odors or nuisance conditions. Chickens must be kept in a sanitary manner per Chapter 7 health and safety standards.
Violations & Fines
Keeping roosters without an exception is an offense under Section 7-7.3. Nuisance conditions from poultry may result in Code Compliance citations. Fines may apply for unregistered flocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have chickens in Dallas?
Are roosters allowed in Dallas?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dallas
How Dallas compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Dallas to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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Chickens & Livestock in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle chickens & livestock.