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

City Code of Ordinances Sec. " A Backyard Hen Permit from the Animal Services Department is required, with a non-refundable application fee, floorplans and elevations for the coop (or manufacturer/model/size for a store-bought coop), a site drawing showing setbacks and property lines, notarized owner authorization if the applicant isn't the property owner, and proof of completing a department-approved hen-care and sanitation course. A site inspection may be required before issuance, though owners with a current permit, no new birds, and no violations in the prior 12 months can renew without inspection at the department's discretion.

Permits run one year, are capped at one per property, and are non-transferable. Operational rules under subsection (f) require hens to stay in a secure enclosure behind at least a 6-foot fence except when supervised in a fenced yard during daylight or briefly confined during extreme cold; coops need at least 10 inches of roosting space per hen and one nesting box per 4 hens; feed must be stored in rodent/insect-proof containers; manure and soiled bedding must be disposed of, composted, or securely stored immediately; and hens' wings must be clipped to prevent flying over the fence.

Selling eggs, meat or manure from permitted hens is prohibited except in compliance with all federal, state and local regulations. Subsection (j) clarifies the permit does not override deed restrictions or HOA rules banning fowl. Violations for harboring hens without a permit, exceeding a permit, or refusing inspection are separate criminal offenses under subsections (g) through (i).