Richmond, TX Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Code chapter
- Chapter 6 Animals
- Nuisance backstop
- Chapter 22 Nuisances
- State minimum
- Six chickens protected
- Enclosure
- Coop required
Summary
Richmond residents may keep chickens and limited livestock if animals are properly enclosed, kept sanitary, and do not become a public nuisance under Chapter 6 of the city code.
Sec. 161.041. 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. Section 2001.0045, Government Code, does not apply to rules adopted under this subsection.(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. The commis
Full Breakdown
Richmond, a historic Fort Bend County seat with a mix of older neighborhoods near downtown and newer subdivisions toward FM 359 and Pecan Grove, allows backyard fowl such as chickens consistent with Texas Local Government Code limits (cities cannot ban keeping six or fewer chickens). Under Richmond's Chapter 6 animal code and Chapter 22 nuisance provisions, chickens and other fowl must be kept in a properly constructed coop or enclosure, kept clean enough to avoid odor and fly attraction, and may not be allowed to run loose. Roosters and larger livestock such as horses, cattle, goats, or hogs are typically restricted to properties with adequate acreage and may be limited or prohibited within residential zoning districts. HOA covenants in Pecan Grove, Veranda, and similar subdivisions often impose stricter rules than the city.
Violations & Fines
Animal control or code enforcement may issue notices and citations for nuisance conditions, unenclosed fowl, or prohibited livestock; municipal court fines apply per offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep chickens in my Richmond, TX backyard?
Are roosters or larger livestock allowed in Richmond city limits?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Richmond
How Richmond compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Richmond to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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Chickens & Livestock in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fort Bend County handle chickens & livestock.