Seattle Chickens & Livestock Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know
Few RestrictionsKey Facts
- Domestic Fowl Limit
- 8 per lot
- Roosters
- Technically allowed (noise rules apply)
- Miniature Goats
- Up to 3 on lots under 20,000 sq ft
- Coop Setback
- 10 feet from neighboring structures
- Permit Required
- No (for standard allowances)
The Short Version
Seattle is famously chicken-friendly. You can keep up to 8 domestic fowl (chickens, ducks, etc.) on any residential lot without a permit. Roosters are allowed — one of the few major cities that permits them — but they have to stay below noise ordinance limits, which effectively means you'll get complaints. Goats are permitted (up to 3 miniature goats on lots under 20,000 sq ft). Bees are also allowed with no cap on hive numbers. The main restriction is a 10-foot setback from neighboring structures for coops and animal shelters.
Full Breakdown
Seattle's animal keeping rules (SMC Chapter 23.42.052) reflect the city's urban farming culture. Eight domestic fowl are allowed on any lot regardless of size. Larger lots (over 20,000 sq ft) can keep more, though the exact number depends on the zoning.
The rooster situation is unusual. Seattle doesn't ban them outright, but the noise ordinance effectively limits their practicality. A rooster crowing at 5 AM will easily exceed the 45 dB nighttime residential limit at a neighboring property. Most chicken keepers stick to hens.
Miniature goats became legal in 2007 after a grassroots campaign. The rules require them to be dehorned, spayed/neutered, and housed in a shelter at least 10 feet from neighboring structures. Full-size goats aren't allowed on standard residential lots. The city also allows pot-bellied pigs (up to 1), honey bees (no limit on hives but best practices suggest 2-3 per urban lot), and rabbits.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Animal keeping violations are complaint-driven. Seattle Animal Shelter responds to complaints and issues notices with 10 days to comply. Fines are $50 per day for each animal in violation after the compliance period. Animals may be impounded if violations aren't corrected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register my backyard chickens in Seattle?
Can I keep bees in my Seattle backyard?
Are pot-bellied pigs legal in Seattle?
Related Ordinances in Seattle
How does Seattle compare?
See how Seattle's chickens & livestock rules stack up against other locations.