Houston allows up to 30 domestic fowl per lot with no roosters and a 100-foot setback from neighboring buildings under Chapter 6. No permit is required. Texas HB 1750 prevents cities from banning chickens, but HOA deed restrictions still apply.
Chapter 6, Article II (Sections 6-31 through 6-39) permits up to 30 domestic fowl on residential properties, making Houston more permissive than most Texas cities. Roosters are prohibited due to noise and cockfighting concerns. Enclosures must be at least 100 feet from any occupied building not belonging to the owner, including neighboring houses, churches, schools, and hospitals. Enclosures must be clean, well-maintained, and provide at least 2 square feet of space per chicken. No special permit is required. HB 1750 (the Right to Farm law) prevents Texas cities from banning chickens, but does not override private deed restrictions or HOA covenants. Harris County is a closed range county, meaning all livestock must be fenced and contained.
Nuisance violations: $200 to $500 fine. Livestock at large: impoundment and fees. Deed restriction violations: civil enforcement through Houston Legal Department.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle chickens & livestock.
See how Houston's chickens & livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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