How many chickens am I allowed to raise on my property?

Chickens are considered "small domestic animals" in our zoning code. Other examples of small domestic animals include dogs, cats, rabbits, ducks, geese, pigeons, chickens, or other similar animals over the age of six months. The number of small domestic animals you are allowed to keep depends on your residential zoning district:

  • Those living in zones RM-6, R-1MBH, R-2MBH, MR-2, and MR-3 are allowed up to two small domestic animals per dwelling unit.
  • Individuals in zones RL-40, RL-22, RM-20, RM-15, RM-12.5, and RM-10 are allowed up to 5 small domestic animals per dwelling unit.

Therefore, depending on your zoning district and the number of pets or other small domestic animals you already have, you may be allowed to be a chicken farmer! Please note that although roosters are not specifically prohibited, there are noise ordinances in the city to consider and you are discouraged from raising roosters. There are also codes related to nuisances (offensive smells, noises, other conditions) and specific penalties for violations of those codes.

Show All Answers

1. What is the current and forecasted growth of the City of West Richland?
2. Can I buy a map of the city streets?
3. What is my zoning?
4. How many chickens am I allowed to raise on my property?
5. What are the required setbacks on my property?
6. Is there a local Chamber of Commerce that I can join?
7. I own commercial property on Van Giesen Street in West Richland and I would like to improve the exterior façade. Are there resources to help me?
8. Who is responsible for clearing the sidewalk in front of my home?
9. How do you know if the proper permits have been obtained?
10. How much are permit fees?
11. Do I need a permit to construct a fence?
12. Do I need a permit to put a small shed on my property?
13. Do I need a permit to put in landscaping walls / retaining walls?
14. What about Portable Carport Structures?
15. What is required to install a swimming pool, spa or hot tub in West Richland?
16. What permits are needed for decks and patio covers?
17. I heard that since my remodel project is valued at less than $500 I don’t need a permit. Is this true?
18. What licensing and permits are required of contractors?