Chicago vs Houston
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Chicago, IL and Houston, TX?
Houston has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago allows backyard chickens with no limit on hens and no permit required. Roosters prohibited. Coops must be 5 feet from property lines. Livestock prohibited in residential zones.
View full Chicago rules →Houston, TX
Harris County
Houston allows up to 30 domestic fowl per lot with no roosters and a 100-foot setback from neighboring buildings under Chapter 6. No permit is required. Texas HB 1750 prevents cities from banning chickens, but HOA deed restrictions still apply.
View full Houston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Hens | No limit, no permit | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited | Prohibited |
| Coop Setback | 5 ft from property line | - |
| Livestock | Prohibited residential | - |
| Fowl Limit | - | 30 per lot |
| Setback | - | 100 ft from neighbors |
| Permit | - | Not required |
| Code Section | - | Ch. 6, Art. II (Sec. 6-31 to 6-39) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
Can I keep chickens?
Many cities allow limited hens. Roosters typically prohibited. Check Chicago zoning and HOA rules.
What about goats?
Usually restricted to agricultural or large-lot residential zones.
Houston FAQ
How many chickens can I have in Houston?
Up to 30 domestic fowl per lot under Chapter 6. Enclosures must be 100 feet from neighboring buildings. Roosters are prohibited.
Can my HOA ban chickens?
Yes. HB 1750 prevents city bans but does not override private deed restrictions or HOA covenants.
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