Wichita, KS Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Under Wichita Municipal Code Chapter 6.04, residents in single-family residential zones may keep up to 6 female chickens (hens) with a Backyard Chicken Permit issued by Wichita Animal Services. Roosters are prohibited due to noise. The coop must be located in the rear yard, at least 20 feet from any neighboring dwelling, fully enclosed, predator-resistant, and kept in sanitary condition. Slaughter of chickens on residential property is prohibited. Permit applications require notification of adjacent neighbors and an inspection. Annual permit renewal is required. Larger livestock (cattle, horses, goats, sheep, pigs, donkeys, llamas) are not allowed on residential lots and are restricted to properties zoned SF-20 (with adequate acreage) or agricultural districts under the Wichita-Sedgwick County Unified Zoning Code. Kansas right-to-farm laws (K.S.A. 2-3201 et seq.) protect existing agricultural operations from nuisance complaints when residential development encroaches. Ducks, geese, turkeys, and other fowl are not covered by the chicken permit and require a hardship variance. Selling eggs from backyard hens for personal use is permitted under Kansas Department of Agriculture cottage food rules with proper labeling.