Chickens & Livestock: Puyallup vs Tacoma
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Puyallup, WA and Tacoma, WA?
Puyallup and Tacoma have similar restriction levels.
Puyallup, WA
Pierce County
Backyard chickens and small livestock are allowed in unincorporated Pierce County, with limits scaled to lot size under zoning code PCC 18A.37.060. On lots under one-half acre, up to five small animals are allowed and roosters are prohibited; lots five acres or larger have no numeric limit.
View full Puyallup rules →Tacoma, WA
Pierce County
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.
View full Tacoma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Puyallup | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Lots under 1/2 acre | 5 small animals max | - |
| Roosters (small lots) | Prohibited | - |
| 1/2 to 5 acres | 12 small animals/acre | - |
| 5+ acres | No numeric limit | - |
| Poultry coop setback | 15 feet | - |
| Hen limit | - | Six per single-family lot |
| Roosters | - | Prohibited in residential zones |
| Permit | - | Not required at base limit |
| Coop setback | - | Required from property lines |
| Enforcement | - | Tacoma Animal Control and TPCHD |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Puyallup FAQ
Can I keep backyard chickens in Pierce County?
Yes. Under zoning code PCC 18A.37.060, lots under one-half acre may keep up to five small animals (hens count), but roosters, peacocks, and male turkeys are prohibited on lots that small.
Are roosters allowed?
Not on small lots. PCC 18A.37.060 prohibits roosters, peacocks, and male turkeys on lots under one-half acre and on lots under one acre in the mid-size tier.
Tacoma FAQ
Do I need a permit to keep six hens in Tacoma?
Generally no, as long as you live in a single-family zone, keep no rooster, and meet coop sanitation and setback rules. Larger flocks or unusual livestock may require zoning review.
Can my neighbor complain about my chickens?
Yes. Tacoma Animal Control and Tacoma-Pierce County Health investigate complaints about smell, noise, rodents, or unsanitary coops, and may order corrections or removal of animals.
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