Chickens & Livestock: Portland vs Seattle
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Portland, OR and Seattle, WA?
Seattle has fewer restrictions than Portland.
Portland, OR
Multnomah County
Portland allows up to three 'specified animals' (chickens, ducks, pigeons, rabbits, or similar small fowl/rodents) per residential lot without a permit under PCC 13.05.015. Four or more requires a $31 Multnomah County Animal Services specified-animal permit and a site inspection. Roosters are not separately banned, but crowing that disturbs neighbors is enforceable under PCC Title 18 (Noise Control). All coops must comply with PCC Title 33 setback and accessory-structure rules.
View full Portland 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 | Portland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Permit-Free Limit | 3 specified animals total per lot | - |
| Permit Threshold | 4+ requires County permit | - |
| Permit Fee | ~$31 (current MCAS schedule) | - |
| Coop Setback | 5 ft side/rear (PCC 33.110) | 10 ft from lot line |
| Goat Limit | Miniature/dwarf breeds only | - |
| 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.
Portland FAQ
How many chickens can I keep in Portland without a permit?
Up to three 'specified animals' total under MCC 13.05.015 — that combined cap covers chickens, ducks, rabbits, and similar small fowl/rodents. Four or more requires a Multnomah County specified-animal permit.
Are roosters allowed in Portland?
Yes, there is no specific rooster ban. However, crowing that disturbs neighbors can be cited under PCC Title 18 (Noise Control), and persistent noise complaints can lead to abatement of the bird 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
See how Portland and Seattle compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool