Wichita Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in Wichita?Yes
How many chickens can you have?12
Can you have roosters in Wichita?Yes (lot size restrictions)
Chicken coop placement rules:At least 20 feet away from any neighboring residence and must be screened from view
Application process:No permit required if fewer than 3 chickens
More information:Access Wichita

You may not know it yet, but if you’re in Wichita, you’re in a backyard chicken enthusiast’s paradise. That’s thanks to the city’s generous chicken ordinance. 

Here’s a summary of the laws related to backyard chicken keeping in Wichita, Kansas:

  • Wichita, Kansas allows residents to keep chickens on their property, but they must obtain a permit from the city’s Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department before doing so.
  • Chicken coops must be located at least 20 feet away from any neighboring residence and must be screened from view.
  • Chicken coops must be designed to prevent the escape of chickens and must be predator-proof.
  • Roosters are allowed, but only if the property is at least 10,000 square feet in size.
  • 12 is the typical limit to the number of hens a resident can keep, but the number must be reasonable and consistent with the size of the property.
  • Chicken owners are not allowed to sell eggs or meat produced by their chickens.
  • Chickens must be provided with a clean and sanitary environment, including clean water and food, and adequate shelter from the elements.
  • Chicken owners are responsible for maintaining their coop and keeping it clean to prevent the accumulation of waste and pests.
  • The city may conduct periodic inspections of chicken coops to ensure compliance with regulations.

It is important for chicken owners in Wichita to obtain the necessary permits and comply with these regulations to avoid fines or legal action.

See other Kansas chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/27/24