| Are chickens allowed in Roswell? | Yes |
| How many chickens can you have? | Up to 25 per acre (depending on lot size) |
| Are roosters allowed in Roswell? | No |
| Chicken coop placement rules: | 10 feet from property lines and other structures |
| Application process: | Permit may be required |
| More information: | Roswell City Code |
If you want to raise chickens in Roswell, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific rules and regulations that apply:
- The City of Roswell allows residents to keep female poultry in residentially zoned areas.
- The maximum number of poultry: The maximum number of female poultry that may be kept on any individual premises is as follows:
- Up to 4 chickens, ducks, turkeys, or any combination thereof, can be kept on premises less than 0.4 acres.
- Up to 10 chickens can be kept on premises between 0.4 and 1 acre.
- Up to 25 chickens, ducks, or turkeys can be kept per acre for premises greater than 1 acre.
- Rooster restriction: Roosters are not allowed within the residentially zoned areas because they are considered a nuisance.
- Secure enclosures: All poultry kept shall be permanently housed in one or more cages or secure enclosures that prevent their escape.
- Chickens shall not be permitted to run at large upon the responsible party’s premises or anywhere else in the city.
- Location requirements: Cages or secure enclosures shall be located 10 feet from the nearest property line as well as any other structure.
- Behavioral considerations: Cages or secure enclosures shall allow for species-specific behaviors, including but not limited to roosting, scratching, dusting, and nesting. Roosting areas shall provide no less than 2 square feet per chicken.
- Regular cleaning: All poultry enclosures must be cleaned regularly to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
- Sanitary waste disposal: All poultry waste must be disposed of in a sanitary manner to prevent any health hazards or nuisances.
Over the course of time, cities have the possibility of changing the rules about backyard chickens. It’s important to reach out to Roswell officials to stay up-to-date.
Start Raising Chickens
See other New Mexico chicken ordinances.
Last updated: 4/25/24