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Davenport, IA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Heavy Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Hens Allowed
6 max, no roosters
Permit
Required plus approved class
Coop Setback
10 ft line, 25 ft home
Lot Type
Single-family dwelling only
Other Livestock
Agricultural zoning only

Summary

Davenport allows up to six hens (no roosters) on single-family lots with a permit and a completed chicken-keeping class. Coops must sit 10 feet from lot lines and 25 feet from any principal structure. Other livestock is banned outside agricultural zoning.

Only a maximum of six female chickens (hens) are allowed for each tract of land.

Source: Davenport Municipal CodeView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4820400; v43 updated 2026-03-11; through 03-11-2026).

Full Breakdown

Chapter 6.06 of the Municipal Code (Ord. 2017-46/2017-451) lets residents keep a maximum of six female chickens; roosters are not permitted. Keepers need a permit from the permitting officer, must complete an approved urban-chicken class, and the lot must contain a single-family dwelling. Henhouses, runs, and chicken tractors must sit at least 10 feet from the property line and 25 feet from any principal structure, provide four square feet per bird, and stay in the rear yard; chickens are barred from the front yard. Section 6.04.055 prohibits cattle, swine, sheep, goats, horses, and other poultry outside agriculturally zoned property.

Violations & Fines

Keeping chickens without a permit, keeping roosters, or exceeding six hens violates Chapter 6.06 and can bring permit denial or revocation plus municipal-infraction penalties. Unlawful livestock under Section 6.04.055 is subject to removal and nuisance enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep backyard chickens in Davenport?
Yes. Up to six hens with a permit and a completed chicken-keeping class. Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be 10 feet from lot lines and 25 feet from homes.
Are roosters or other livestock allowed?
No roosters. Cattle, swine, sheep, goats, horses, and other poultry are prohibited under Section 6.04.055 unless the property is zoned agricultural.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Davenport

Dog Leash LawsSome RestrictionsExotic PetsHeavy RestrictionsBreed RestrictionsSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage TreesSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Weed OrdinancesSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree TrimmingSome RestrictionsSign Regulations: Holiday DisplaysFew RestrictionsSign Regulations: Garage Sale SignsSome RestrictionsSign Regulations: Political SignsFew Restrictions

All Davenport rules

How Davenport compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Davenport to another location·View the Iowa animal ordinances overview

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