| Are chickens allowed in Missoula? | Yes |
| How many chickens can you have? | 6 |
| Can you have roosters in Missoula? | No |
| Chicken coop placement rules: | Coops at least 50 feet from lot lines and 20 feet from homes. |
| Application process: | Permit may be required |
| More information: | Missoula municipal code |
If you have an interest in raising chickens in Missoula, it’s vital to educate yourself about the rules and regulations you need to follow.
- The city of Missoula, Montana allows residents to keep up to six (6) female chickens on single-family properties of one acre or larger.
- Roosters are strictly prohibited.
- Chickens must be kept in a covered, predator-proof coop or other structure that is:
- Thoroughly ventilated.
- Of sufficient size to admit free movement of the animals.
- Designed to be easily accessed, cleaned, and maintained.
- Chickens must be shut into the coop or other structure from sunset to sunrise each day.
- Structures used to house the chickens must be set back at least twenty feet from a structure used for human habitation and at least fifty feet from any real property line.
Additional Tips for Keeping Chickens in Missoula:
- Choose the right size coop: Ensure the coop is large enough for the chickens to spread their wings and move comfortably.
- Offer a dust bath: Provide a dust bath for chickens to keep them clean and free of parasites.
- Feed a balanced diet: Provide good chicken feed to supply the necessary nutrients for their health and productivity.
- Provide fresh water daily: Ensure chickens have access to clean and fresh water every day.
- Maintain a clean coop: Regularly clean the coop to prevent the spread of disease.
The rules regarding backyard chickens in cities can evolve over time, so it’s essential to reach out to Missoula officials for the most recent information.
Start Raising Chickens
See other Montana chicken ordinances.
Last updated: 4/25/24