Butte Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in Butte?Yes
How many chickens can you have?25
Can you have roosters in Butte?No
Chicken coop placement rules:Coops at least 40 feet from property lines.
Application process:Permit required
More information:Butte municipal code

If you want to raise chickens in Butte, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations that apply.

  • Residents of Butte, Montana are permitted to keep up to 25 chickens for non-commercial purposes only on their property. 
  • No roosters are allowed. 
  • Chickens must be kept in an area of at least 20,000 square feet.
  • Chicken coops must be located at least 40 feet from any lot line and must be kept clean and sanitary.
  • Chickens must be vaccinated against diseases such as avian flu.

Prohibited Activities

  • It is unlawful to sell or give away baby chickens under 3 weeks of age.
  • It is unlawful to color or dye the natural color of baby chickens.
  • It is unlawful to burn poultry litter.

The rules about keeping backyard chickens in Butte can change as time goes by, so it’s crucial to contact the local officials to get the latest information.

See other Montana chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/25/24