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Garland, TX Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

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

Key Facts

Birds Allowed
Hens permitted, roosters banned
Coop Setback
50 feet from neighbor dwelling
Flock Limit
Based on lot size
Sanitation
Odor and vermin free
Complaints
Code Compliance (972) 205-3340

Summary

Garland allows backyard chickens with setback and coop requirements under Chapter 6 of the City Code; roosters are prohibited in residential zones and the number of fowl is limited by lot size.

DISEASE CONTROL. (a) The commission shall protect all livestock, exotic livestock, domestic fowl, and exotic fowl from diseases the commission determines require control or eradication. The commission shall adopt and periodically update rules listing the diseases that require control or eradication by the commission. ... (b) The commission may act to eradicate or control any disease or agent of transmission for any disease that affects livestock, exotic livestock, domestic fowl, or exotic fowl, regardless of whether the disease is communicable, even if the agent of transmission is an animal species that is not subject to the jurisdiction of the commission.

Source: Garland City Code (Municode)View official code

Full Breakdown

Garland's Animal Control ordinance (Chapter 6 of the Code of Ordinances) regulates the keeping of fowl on residential property. Hens are generally permitted on single-family residential lots, but roosters are prohibited because of noise. Coops and runs must be set back a minimum distance from any neighboring dwelling (typically 50 feet) and from property lines. Enclosures must be kept clean, dry, and free from accumulated waste, odor, vermin, and flies. The maximum number of birds is tied to lot size, with small residential lots typically limited to a small flock. Slaughter of poultry on residential property is prohibited. Code Compliance enforces violations and can issue citations carrying fines up to $500 per day under Texas municipal authority. Owners are responsible for preventing fowl from running at large.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep roosters in Garland?
No. Roosters are prohibited in residential zones because of noise complaints. Only hens are allowed under the backyard fowl provisions.
How far does the coop have to be from my neighbor?
Coops generally must be at least 50 feet from any adjacent residence and meet rear/side yard setbacks. Confirm exact distances with Code Compliance.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Garland

All Garland rules

How Garland compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Garland to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview

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