Ames Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in Ames?	Yes
How many chickens can you have?	No official limits
Can you have roosters in Ames?	No official restriction
Chicken coop placement rules:	Coops 25 feet from neighbors’ homes and 5 feet from lot lines (generally).
Application process:	Permit required
More information:	Ames City Code, Chapter 13

Ames doesn’t make much clear when it comes to rules surrounding raising backyard chickens.

Keep reading to find out more about raising backyard chickens in Ames.

• Allowed chickens. In Ames, Iowa, residents can keep backyard chickens, but the city code does not specify particular limits on how many you can keep.
• Roosters. Ames’ city code does not specifically prohibit roosters.
• Permit application. A permit may be necessary for residents who wish to keep backyard chickens, which involves submitting an application and paying any relevant fees.
• Coop and run requirements. Chicken coops must be well-ventilated, secure against predators, and designed for ease of maintenance. Each chicken should have at least 3 square feet of space in the coop and a minimum of 10 square feet of space in the run.
• Setback rules and coop location. Chicken coops must be placed a minimum of 25 feet away from any neighboring residential dwelling and at least 5 feet away from property lines.
• Upkeep and sanitation. Maintaining clean and sanitary conditions in chicken coops and runs is important, with proper waste disposal and regular cleaning required.
• Restrictions on slaughtering. Slaughtering chickens is not allowed on residential properties within the city limits.
• Homeowners’ Association (HOA) policies. Residents should consult their HOA to determine if backyard chickens are permitted under their specific community rules. In some instances, HOA guidelines may override city regulations.

To get the most trustworthy information on keeping backyard chickens in Ames, it’s best to check with the relevant local authorities.

See other Iowa chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/26/24