Scottsdale regulates the keeping of domestic animals including chickens and livestock under Chapter 4, Article II of the Revised Code. Chickens and other fowl are permitted in certain zoning districts with restrictions on number, housing, sanitation, and noise. Roosters and other male fowl that create noise disturbances may be prohibited under the nuisance animal provisions.
Scottsdale Revised Code Chapter 4, Article II (Keeping of Domestic Animals) establishes regulations for chickens, livestock, and other domestic animals. Animal manure and droppings must be removed from pens, stables, yards, and cages at least twice weekly and disposed of in a sanitary manner free of health hazards. Containers for manure storage must be insect-tight and approved by the health officer. The number of animals permitted depends on the zoning district and lot size. Section 4-17(c) prohibits keeping any animal or fowl that by frequent or habitual howling, yelping, barking, crowing, or other noises annoys or disturbs a neighborhood or two or more persons. This effectively limits roosters in residential areas. Livestock in large-lot residential zones (R1-35, R1-43) is generally permitted with appropriate setbacks from neighboring properties.
Violations of animal keeping regulations may result in code enforcement citations, required removal of animals, and fines. Nuisance animal complaints (Section 4-17(c)) can be filed by any two persons or a police/animal control officer.
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