St. Louis Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in St. Louis?Yes
How many chickens can you have?8 (more with larger lot size)
Can you have roosters in St. Louis?No
Chicken coop placement rules:Coops at least 10 feet from lot lines and in backyard.
Application process:Permit may be required (depending on lot and lot size)
More information:St. Louis City Code

If you’re curious about raising chickens in St. Louis, you should familiarize yourself with the necessary rules and regulations.

  • Number of Chickens: Residents are permitted to keep up to 8 chickens on their property unless their land is smaller than 20,000 square feet. In such cases, a permit must be obtained from the Health Department.
  • Space Requirements: Chickens must be provided with adequate space for their well-being. A coop with a minimum of 4 square feet per chicken and an outdoor run with a minimum of 10 square feet per chicken are required.
  • No Roosters: It’s important to note that roosters are not allowed within the city limits. Only hens are permitted for backyard chicken keeping.
  • Location Restrictions: Coops and runs should be situated in the backyard of the property. They must also be at least 10 feet away from any neighboring property lines.
  • Size Limitations: Coops and runs should not exceed 50 square feet in size. This restriction ensures that the chicken-keeping facilities remain within reasonable dimensions.
  • Inspections: It’s important to be aware that the Health Commissioner holds the right to inspect your coop or run at any time. This measure helps ensure compliance with the regulations and the well-being of the chickens.

Rules surrounding backyard chickens in cities can change over time. So, it’s crucial to contact St. Louis officials to stay informed about any updates or modifications.

See other Missouri chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/26/24