Tacoma allows residents to keep a limited number of chickens and small livestock at single-family homes, subject to coop setbacks, sanitation rules, and a strict prohibition on roosters within most residential zones.
Under Tacoma Municipal Code Chapter 4 and Title 13 zoning provisions, residents may keep up to six hens at a single-family residence without a permit, with additional birds allowed on larger lots. Roosters are prohibited in most residential zones because of crowing noise. Coops must be set back from property lines, kept clean, and free of standing water that attracts rodents. Small livestock such as miniature goats and rabbits are permitted on qualifying lots, but pigs, cattle, and horses are restricted to specific zoning districts. Owners must prevent escape, odor, and feed-related pest problems, all of which trigger code enforcement complaints handled jointly by Tacoma Animal Control and Tacoma-Pierce County Health.
Keeping roosters, exceeding hen limits, placing coops too close to neighboring homes, or allowing odor and rodent conditions can result in code enforcement notices, daily fines, and required removal of animals.
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See how Tacoma's chickens & livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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