| Are chickens allowed in Pocatello? | Yes (with written permission) |
| How many chickens can you have? | No official limits |
| Can you have roosters in Pocatello? | Yes (with written permission) |
| Chicken coop placement rules: | Coops in rear yard, 3 feet from lot lines, and 25 feet from other homes. |
| Application process: | Permit required |
| More information: | Pocatello city code |
Get your pen and paper out — you have to apply in writing for a permit to keep backyard chickens in Pocatello.
Here’s more information about Pocatello’s backyard chicken ordinance:
- Permissible number of chickens. In Pocatello, Idaho, residents are allowed to keep chickens in their backyards, but they have to get written permission from the director of animal services. This process does not specify a limit to the number of chickens you’re allowed to keep..
- Restrictions on roosters. Although you do have to get written permission to keep any chickens in Pocatello, the city’s code does not expressly forbid roosters..
- Requirement of a permit. A permit is necessary for residents to keep backyard chickens. The permit application must be submitted in writing to the director of animal services along with any applicable fees.
- Guidelines for coops and runs. Chicken coops should be predator-proof, well-ventilated, and designed for ease of maintenance. Each chicken must have at least 3 square feet of space in the coop and a minimum of 10 square feet of space in the run.
- Placement of coops and setbacks. Chicken coops must be situated at least 25 feet away from any neighboring residential dwelling and a minimum of 3 feet away from property lines.
- Maintenance and sanitary conditions. Regular cleaning and proper waste disposal are required to keep chicken coops and runs clean and sanitary.
- Slaughter prohibitions. The slaughtering of chickens is not permitted on residential properties within the city limits.
- Homeowners’ Association (HOA) policies. Residents should check with their HOA to determine if backyard chickens are permitted under their community’s specific regulations. In some cases, HOA rules may supersede city regulations.
To ensure that you have the most accurate and current information about backyard chicken keeping in Pocatello, it is suggested that you consult the appropriate local authorities.
Start Raising Chickens
See other Idaho chicken ordinances.
Last updated: 4/26/24