Arizona Backyard Chicken and Livestock State Law

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.

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.