Chickens & Livestock: Kent vs Seattle
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Kent, WA and Seattle, WA?
Seattle has fewer restrictions than Kent.
Kent, WA
King County
Kent allows up to 3 hens on lots of at least 5,000 square feet, plus 1 additional hen per extra 1,000 square feet. Coops must sit 10 feet from property lines. Roosters are discouraged under the noise ordinance.
View full Kent rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Unincorporated King County allows up to 8 chickens on lots under 20,000 sq ft in RA and R zones per KCC 21A.30.020, more on larger parcels. Roosters are effectively restricted via noise complaints in dense areas.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kent | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Base Flock | 3 hens on 5,000 sq ft | - |
| Extra Hens | 1 per 1,000 sq ft over | - |
| Coop Setback | 10 feet from property line | 10 ft from lot line |
| Roosters | Allowed but noise-restricted | - |
| Base Allowance | - | 8 chickens under 20k sf lot |
| Dwelling Setback | - | 25 ft from neighbor home |
| Rooster Risk | - | Noise complaint based |
| Code | - | KCC 21A.30.020 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kent FAQ
How many chickens can I keep in Kent?
3 hens on a 5,000 sq ft lot, with 1 additional hen per 1,000 sq ft over the base. Coops must be 10 feet from property lines.
Are roosters legal in Kent?
There is no flat ban, but rooster crowing routinely exceeds KCC 8.05 residential dBA limits and can be cited as a nuisance.
Seattle FAQ
Can I keep a rooster on a half-acre in unincorporated King County?
Technically yes in RA and R zones, but practically no in dense areas. Neighbors can file noise complaints under KCC 12.86 and a rooster crowing at dawn will likely be deemed a nuisance.
Do I need a permit to build a chicken coop?
Coops under 200 sq ft typically do not require a building permit but must meet setback and zoning requirements. Electrical or plumbing triggers permit requirements.
Compare other topics
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