Backyard Chickens in Fort Collins, Colorado

What the Fort Collins Rules Say

Fort Collins Municipal Code Section 4-117 allows chicken hens and duck hens where farm animals are not otherwise allowed, but only under specific conditions. Lots under one-half acre may keep up to 8 chickens or ducks total. Larger lots may qualify for more birds under the city’s acreage-based limits.

Roosters and drakes are prohibited. The city code requires a permit, information or training, and a site inspection before the permit is issued.

What This Means in Plain English

Backyard hens are allowed in Fort Collins, but the city has a structured permit process. For a typical smaller residential lot, plan around a maximum of 8 total chicken or duck hens.

Your coop and run need to be designed before inspection. The city requires covered, predator-resistant housing, an adequately fenced outdoor enclosure, and setbacks from neighboring property lines unless neighbors give written consent.

Practical Considerations

Permit and Inspection

Start with the permit process before buying birds. Fort Collins expects the enclosure to be inspected, and the code requires education or information before issuance.

Coop Placement

The poultry house and outdoor enclosure must be at least 15 feet from abutting property lines unless affected abutting owners consent in writing.

Night Security

Birds must have a covered, predator-resistant, ventilated poultry house with at least 4 square feet per hen or duck, and they must be closed in the poultry house from dusk to dawn.

Getting Started

1. Confirm Section 4-117 and the current permit process with NOCO Humane or the city.
2. Measure your lot size to determine the bird limit.
3. Keep only hens, not roosters or drakes.
4. Place the coop and outdoor enclosure at least 15 feet from abutting property lines unless written consent applies.
5. Complete the required permit, education, and inspection before keeping birds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Fort Collins?

Yes. Fort Collins allows chicken hens and duck hens under Section 4-117 with a required permit and enclosure standards.

How many hens can I have in Fort Collins?

On a lot under one-half acre, the limit is up to 8 chickens or ducks total. Larger lots may qualify for more birds under the acreage-based rule.

Are roosters allowed in Fort Collins?

No. Fort Collins prohibits roosters and drakes under the chicken and duck hen rule.