Pierce County, WA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Lots under 1/2 acre
- 5 small animals max
- Roosters (small lots)
- Prohibited
- 1/2 to 5 acres
- 12 small animals/acre
- 5+ acres
- No numeric limit
- Poultry coop setback
- 15 feet
Summary
Backyard chickens and small livestock are allowed in unincorporated Pierce County, with limits scaled to lot size under zoning code PCC 18A.37.060. On lots under one-half acre, up to five small animals are allowed and roosters are prohibited; lots five acres or larger have no numeric limit.
Five or fewer small animals, excluding dogs and cats allowed pursuant to PCC above, are allowed. Roosters, peacocks, and male turkeys are prohibited.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2026-515, and legislation passed through May 26, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Keeping poultry and livestock is regulated by Pierce County's zoning code (Title 18A), not the animal-control title. PCC 18A.37.060 (Animals, under Accessory Development – Residential) tiers the allowance by parcel size. For lots less than one-half acre: two small livestock (all other livestock prohibited) and 'five or fewer small animals, excluding dogs and cats... Roosters, peacocks, and male turkeys are prohibited.' For lots from one-half acre to under five acres: twelve or fewer small animals per acre, with roosters, peacocks, and male turkeys still prohibited on lots under one acre. For lots five acres or greater, there is 'no restriction on the number of livestock and small animals kept.'
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the lot-size animal limits, keeping a prohibited rooster/peacock/male turkey on a small lot, violating setbacks, or letting manure accumulate as a nuisance violates PCC 18A.37.060 and is enforced by Pierce County Planning & Public Works code enforcement, which can
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep backyard chickens in Pierce County?
Are roosters allowed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pierce County
How Pierce County compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Pierce County to another location·View the Washington animal ordinances overview
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