| Are chickens allowed in Watertown? | Yes (by special permission from the animal control board) |
| How many chickens can you have? | Dependent on permit |
| Can you have roosters in Watertown? | Dependent on permit |
| Chicken coop placement rules: | Contact city |
| Application process: | Permission from animal control board required |
| More information: | Watertown City Code |
Eager to embark on chicken farming in Watertown? Empower yourself with comprehensive knowledge of the city’s backyard chicken rules for success.
- Permission from the Animal Control Board: Keeping domestic fowl is allowed in Watertown, South Dakota, but only with special permission granted by the Animal Control Board.
- Residence Lot Requirement: Chickens must be kept on a detached single-family lot.
- Maximum Number of Chickens: The maximum number of chickens depends on your permit.
- Prohibition of Roosters: Roosters are strictly prohibited from being kept within city limits.
- Coop Location Requirements: The coop must be a stand-alone structure in the rear yard, generally maintaining a distance of at least 25 feet from all property lines. Additionally, it will likely need to be positioned at least 10 feet away from the principal structure. But this will depend on your permit.
- Chicken Run Fence Requirements: The chicken run’s total area must not exceed 64 square feet, and the fence surrounding it should be between 48 and 96 inches in height.
- Restriction from Other Structures: Chickens are strictly prohibited from being kept in any other structure on the lot, including garages, basements, and attics.
Stay in the loop with Watertown’s changing backyard chicken regulations; consult local authorities.
Start Raising Chickens
See other South Dakota chicken ordinances.
Last updated: 4/24/24