Arizona Statewide Rule
Arizona Backyard Chicken and Livestock State Law
Key Facts
- Right to Farm statute
- A.R.S. Section 3-112
- Estray law
- A.R.S. Section 3-1311
- Livestock running at large
- Class 2 misdemeanor
- Local zoning authority
- Retained by cities
Summary
Arizona generally leaves chicken and livestock keeping to municipal zoning, but state law protects agricultural operations on land zoned or used for farming under the Right to Farm Act.
A municipality may not adopt any law, ordinance or other regulation that prohibits a resident of a single-family detached residence on a lot that is one-half acre or less in size from keeping up to six fowl in the backyard of the property.
Full Breakdown
Arizona Revised Statutes Title 3 governs agriculture statewide. The Arizona Right to Farm Act (A.R.S. Section 3-112) prevents nuisance lawsuits against agricultural operations existing for one year if the operation predates surrounding non-farm uses. Cities and counties retain primary zoning authority over backyard chickens and livestock under A.R.S. Title 9 and Title 11, so coop limits, rooster restrictions, and setback rules vary locally. State law universally requires owners of livestock to prevent animals from running at large under A.R.S. Section 3-1311 in no-fence districts.
Violations & Penalties
Allowing livestock to run at large is a class 2 misdemeanor under A.R.S. Section 3-1314, with possible impoundment fees and civil liability for damages caused.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Arizona state law allow backyard chickens?
What protects established farms from neighbor complaints?
Sources
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