Bringing home chickens and setting up a coop should be exciting, not followed by the discovery that your flock violates a local ordinance. Planning your setup can be challenging because Wyoming does not have one clear statewide requirement. Permits, flock limits, rooster restrictions, and coop standards vary by city, county, zoning district, and property.
Instead of searching through multiple government websites, use this guide to find key requirements and local contact information in one place. You can spend less time sorting through regulations and more time preparing the right setup for your flock.
Last Updated:
Is It Legal to Have Chickens in Your Backyard in Wyoming?
Yes, backyard chickens are legal in many Wyoming communities, but the rules vary by city, county, and zoning district. Casper, Cheyenne, Gillette, Laramie, Riverton, Rock Springs, and Sheridan all allow chickens under certain conditions. Buffalo and Douglas also permit them with relatively few citywide requirements. Several counties, including Converse, Crook, Fremont, Goshen, Johnson, Laramie, Washakie, and Weston, allow chickens on unincorporated properties without a county chicken keeping permit.
Some communities are more restrictive. Chickens are prohibited within Jackson and Torrington, while Evanston generally limits them to Agricultural and Open Space zoning districts. County requirements can also vary by zoning. Platte County allows chickens in RAM zoning, while Sweetwater, Teton, Uinta, and Sheridan counties base eligibility on the property’s zoning district or approved use. Always check your city or county regulations, property zoning, and HOA rules before purchasing chickens or installing a coop.
Do You Need a Permit for Chickens in Wyoming?
Wyoming does not have a statewide permit for keeping backyard chickens, but some cities and counties require local approval.
Permit requirements include:
- Casper: A permit is required.
- Gillette: You need an urban chicken license and must pass a coop inspection.
- Rock Springs: An annual permit and written consent from adjacent property owners are required.
- Sheridan: A city permit is required for the coop and enclosure.
- Cheyenne: A city permit is not required, but you must receive written consent from adjoining property owners and every adult living at the property.
- Buffalo, Douglas, and Laramie: A special chicken-keeping permit is not required.
- Park County: A $75 Building and Zoning Permit is required before keeping chickens or placing a coop on unincorporated property.
- Big Horn County: You must submit a Development Application and pay a $50 fee before building a coop.
- Converse, Crook, Fremont, Goshen, Johnson, Washakie, and Weston counties: A county chicken-keeping permit is not required on unincorporated property, although construction or property-specific approvals may still apply.
Other communities may base approval on your zoning district, lot size, or coop design. Use the city and county sections below to find the department responsible for chicken and zoning requirements in your area.
How Many Chickens Can I Have in Wyoming?
Your flock limit depends on where you live, but Wyoming cities allow an average of around 6 hens. However, some cities fall below that limit, with Gillette allowing only 5 hens, while others allow more, such as Riverton, which allows up to 12 hens.
Many Wyoming counties, however, do not set one flock limit for every unincorporated property. Sublette County is an exception, with limits based on lot size. Properties smaller than 1 acre may have up to 8 hens and ducks over 100 days old, while a 1-acre property may have up to 20 poultry. Properties of at least 2 acres may have up to 10 poultry per acre.
Your zoning, lot size, and available coop space can also affect the number of chickens you can keep, so check with your city or county officials to determine the flock limit for your property.
Can I Let My Chickens Free Range in My Backyard?
In most Wyoming cities, you cannot allow chickens to roam freely without a secure boundary. Buffalo, Douglas, and Evanston prohibit chickens from running at large, while Gillette requires chickens to remain inside a coop or enclosed run during the day and inside the coop at night. Casper and Rock Springs also require enclosed, predator-resistant housing.
County requirements can also affect how your chickens are confined. Sublette County requires poultry to remain confined, restrained, or under your direct supervision. In certain Albany County zoning districts, chickens must be fenced or otherwise enclosed. Teton County requires that the entire chicken-keeping area, including the coop and outdoor run, remain within a bear-resistant enclosure.
Even where limited free-ranging is allowed, your chickens cannot enter neighboring properties, streets, sidewalks, or other public areas. Working with an experienced custom chicken coop manufacturer like The Hen House Collection makes it easier to choose a chicken coop and enclosed run that fits your flock and your area’s enclosure requirements.
Can I Have a Rooster in My Backyard in Wyoming?
Roosters are prohibited in most Wyoming cities, including Buffalo, Cheyenne, Douglas, Gillette, Green River, Riverton, Rock Springs, and Sheridan.
A few communities provide exceptions. Casper allows roosters in Urban Agriculture zoning districts or with an approved conditional use permit. Laramie appears to allow them, but crowing and other disruptive noise can still violate nuisance regulations. County rules are often less restrictive, but your zoning and property conditions still matter. Sublette County prohibits roosters on properties smaller than 1 acre, while several other counties address rooster noise through nuisance regulations or private property restrictions.
Because rooster restrictions are generally stricter than hen limits, check the rule for your address before adding one to your flock.
Can I Sell My Chicken Eggs in Wyoming?
Yes, Wyoming residents can sell eggs under the Wyoming Food Freedom Act, including through certain direct sales and third-party sellers. Sellers must inform customers when the eggs have not been certified, licensed, regulated, or inspected. Different requirements may apply based on how and where the eggs are sold. The Wyoming Department of Agriculture also provides guidance on safely selling locally produced eggs and the requirements for candling and grading.
Local business and land use rules may also apply. Rock Springs, for example, requires a home occupation license to sell eggs from your property. Albany County requires a Conditional Use Permit for on-site agricultural sales in UR zoning, while Teton County requires separate zoning authorization for on-site retail sales. Check with your city or county and the Wyoming Department of Agriculture before offering eggs for sale.
Chicken Laws For Cities in Wyoming
The best way to determine if you can keep backyard chickens in Wyoming is to check with your local officials. The table below includes contact information for several major Wyoming cities. Click your city’s name in the left column to review its backyard chicken laws.
Does Buffalo, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens in Buffalo without a permit, but you must follow these requirements:
- Roosters: Roosters are prohibited within city limits.
- Confinement: Chickens must remain confined to your property. Poultry running at large is considered a nuisance.
- Coop Requirements: No clear requirements. Contact the city before selecting a coop location or beginning construction.
- Sanitation: Animal waste cannot produce odors that can be detected beyond your property line. Excessive animal noise is also prohibited.
Before purchasing chickens or installing a coop, contact the City of Buffalo at (307) 684-5566 to confirm zoning setbacks and building permit requirements.
Does Casper, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens at a single-family residence in Casper, but you must obtain a permit and meet the following requirements:
- Number of Chickens: Up to 6 hens per residence.
- Roosters: Roosters are prohibited unless the property is in an Urban Agriculture zoning district or has an approved conditional use permit.
- Coop Requirements: Each bird must receive at least 5 square feet of space. The coop cannot exceed 60 square feet or 7 feet in height, and it must be covered, ventilated, fully enclosed, and predator-resistant.
- Placement: The coop must remain in the rear yard.
- Setbacks: Maintain at least 6 feet between the coop and all side and rear property lines.
- Sanitation: Keep the coop clean and prevent waste, odors, and other conditions that could create a nuisance.
Contact the Casper Code Enforcement Division at (307) 235-8224 to confirm permit fees and inspection requirements before setting up your coop.
Does Cheyenne, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens in Cheyenne without a city permit, but you must receive written consent and comply with these requirements:
- Number of Chickens: Up to 6 hens per single-family residential lot.
- Roosters: Roosters are prohibited. Ducks, geese, turkeys, and guinea fowl are also not permitted under the residential chicken allowance.
- Consent Requirements: You must receive written consent from every adjoining property owner and every adult who lives on the property where the chickens will be kept. Consent remains in effect for one year. If it is later withdrawn, the chickens must be removed within 60 days.
- Coop Requirements: Provide at least 3 square feet of coop space per hen. The enclosure must remain in the rear yard and protect the flock from predators.
- Overnight Confinement: Hens must remain inside the coop from sundown to sunrise.
Contact Cheyenne Planning and Development Services at (307) 637-6282 to confirm coop placement requirements for your property.
Does Cody, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens appear to be permitted in Cody without a chicken keeping permit. Because requirements may vary by property, contact the Cody Community Development Department at (307) 527-7511 to check your zoning and ask about flock limits, roosters, and coop placement before getting chickens.
Does Douglas, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens in Douglas without a special permit. However, the city provides few specific requirements beyond prohibiting roosters and requiring chickens to remain confined to your property. Before installing a coop, contact Douglas Code Enforcement at (307) 358-2132 to confirm the applicable housing and zoning requirements.
Does Evanston, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens do not appear to be permitted in Evanston’s standard residential zoning districts. The city classifies chickens as farm animals, which appear to be allowed only in Agricultural and Open Space zones.
- Zoning Requirements: Your property must be in a zoning district that permits farm animals. Confirm your zoning before purchasing chickens.
- Coop Requirements: Chicken coops must meet the city’s accessory structure standards.
- Size: An accessory structure cannot exceed 60% of the principal building’s footprint. All accessory structures combined cannot exceed 75% of that footprint.
- Materials: Structures larger than 120 square feet must use siding and roofing that are compatible with the principal building.
- Setbacks: Structures must remain at least 3 feet from property lines.
- Confinement and Sanitation: Chickens cannot run at large. The property must remain free of accumulated animal waste, excessive odors, and disruptive noise.
Contact Evanston Animal Control at (307) 783-6471 or the Planning and Zoning Department to confirm that your property can legally accommodate chickens.
Does Gillette, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens in Gillette after obtaining an urban chicken license and passing a coop inspection.
- Number of Chickens: Up to 5 hens. The license holder must be at least 18 years old.
- Roosters: Roosters are prohibited.
- Zoning Requirements: Urban chickens are permitted in the R S, R 1, R 2, and M H zoning districts.
- License Requirements: The initial license costs $50, followed by a $15 annual renewal fee. The enclosure must pass an inspection before the license is approved.
- Coop Requirements: Provide at least 4 square feet per hen. The coop cannot exceed 60 square feet or 7 feet in height, and it must be fully enclosed, well-ventilated, and predator-resistant.
- Run Requirements: An enclosed run is required. Chickens must remain in the coop or run during the day and inside the coop at night.
- Placement and Setbacks: The enclosure must remain in the rear yard and sit at least 6 feet from the side and rear property lines.
- Sanitation: Store chicken waste inside a covered enclosure with a solid roof.
- Slaughter: Slaughtering chickens within city limits is prohibited.
Contact Gillette Animal Control through the City of Gillette to apply for a license and schedule your coop inspection.
Does Green River, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens may be allowed in Green River with city approval. City code currently indicates that up to 6 hens may be permitted and that roosters are prohibited, but the requirements may vary by property and zoning district.
Before getting chickens or installing a coop, contact Green River City Hall at (307) 872-6100 to check your address and obtain the current permit, flock, and coop requirements.
Does Jackson, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, you cannot keep backyard chickens within the Town of Jackson under the current municipal code. Jackson has previously considered changes to its animal regulations. Before making plans for a flock, contact the Town Clerk at (307) 734-3484 to make sure the prohibition remains in effect.
Does Lander, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Chicken keeping requirements in Lander can depend on your property’s zoning and size. Before purchasing chickens or installing a coop, contact the City of Lander Planning Department at (307) 332-2870 to ask about:
- The number of hens permitted on your property
- Rooster restrictions
- Permit requirements
- Coop placement, size, and setbacks
- Additional zoning requirements
HOA rules and property covenants may also restrict backyard chickens.
Does Laramie, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens in Laramie without obtaining a chicken permit, but you must comply with the city’s animal housing and nuisance standards.
- Number of Chickens: You may keep up to 12 rabbits and fowl combined once the animals are more than 100 days old.
- Roosters: Roosters appear to be allowed, but they remain subject to the city’s noise and nuisance regulations.
- Coop Requirements: Each bird must receive at least 9 square feet of living space, and the enclosure must have a ceiling height of at least 2 feet.
- Sanitation: Keep the enclosure clean and prevent odors, waste, noise, and other conditions that could disturb neighboring properties.
- Setbacks: Coop setbacks depend on the property’s zoning district. Confirm the required distances before choosing a location.
- Private Restrictions: HOA covenants may prohibit chickens even when city regulations allow them.
Contact Laramie Planning at (307) 721-5207 to confirm zoning and setback requirements for your coop.
Does Rawlins, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Rawlins previously required a permit to keep domestic fowl within city limits and within 1½ miles of the city boundary. However, the city considered changes to its animal ordinance in 2025, so you should check the current rules before getting chickens.
Under the previous requirements, roosters were prohibited, and coops had to comply with the accessory structure standards for the property’s zoning district. Some permanent coops could also require a building permit.
Contact Rawlins Animal Control at (307) 328-4534 to ask about the current permit process, flock limit, rooster restriction, and coop setbacks.
Does Riverton, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens in Riverton, but you may need a city permit and must follow these requirements:
- Number of Chickens: Up to 12 chickens, 8 ducks, or 12 total birds when keeping a combination of chickens and ducks.
- Roosters: Roosters and drakes are prohibited.
- Permit Requirements: A permit may be required. Confirm the applicable approval process and fee with the Community Development Department.
- Coop Requirements: Each bird must receive at least 9 square feet of space, and the enclosure must have a ceiling height of at least 2 feet. Keep the structure clean, in good repair, and free from offensive odors.
- Setbacks: The enclosure must remain at least 15 feet from neighboring property lines unless you receive written consent from the affected neighbor.
- RR 22 Zoning: Structures used to house fowl must remain at least 40 feet from a residential dwelling in the RR 22 zoning district.
- Allowed Uses: Chickens may be kept for education, science, companionship, exhibition, and personal consumption.
- Noise: Repeated crowing, screeching, quacking, or other disruptive animal noise is prohibited.
Contact the Riverton Community Development Department at (307) 857-7708 to confirm permit and zoning requirements for your property.
Does Rock Springs, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens in Rock Springs after obtaining an annual permit from Animal Control and receiving consent from neighboring property owners.
- Number of Chickens: Up to 6 hens.
- Roosters: Roosters are prohibited.
- Permit Requirements: Submit an annual application and a $25 nonrefundable fee to Rock Springs Animal Control. You must also provide signed consent from every adjacent property owner.
- Coop Requirements: Chickens must remain inside a covered, predator-resistant enclosure.
- Setbacks: Keep the enclosure at least 3 feet from adjacent property lines and 25 feet from structures on neighboring properties.
- Feed Storage: Store feed in weather-resistant containers that other animals cannot access.
- Slaughter and Sales: Slaughtering chickens is prohibited within city limits. Selling eggs requires a home occupation license.
Contact Rock Springs Animal Control at (307) 352-1455 to obtain the application and confirm current permit requirements.
Does Sheridan, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens in Sheridan, but a city permit is required for the coop and enclosure.
- Number of Chickens: The permitted flock size depends on your property. Lots of at least one acre may have up to 10 hens per acre. Contact Sheridan Planning for the limit on properties smaller than one acre.
- Roosters: Roosters and other male poultry are prohibited.
- Coop Requirements: The coop must remain in the rear yard and be maintained to prevent odors, pests, and predator activity.
- Sanitation: Remove manure regularly and keep the enclosure clean.
- Slaughter: Slaughtering poultry is prohibited in residential zoning districts.
Before installing your coop, contact Sheridan Planning at (307) 674-6483 for the flock limit, setback requirements, and permit process that apply to your property.
Does Torrington, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, you cannot keep backyard chickens in Torrington under the current city code.
- Chicken Allowance: Domestic fowl are prohibited within the city. This restriction includes chickens, turkeys, geese, ducks, peacocks, and guinea fowl.
- Roosters: Roosters are also prohibited.
A proposed 2019 ordinance would have allowed up to four laying hens, but it was tabled before becoming law. Contact the City of Torrington at (307) 532-5666 to confirm that the prohibition remains in effect.
Does Worland, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens appear to be allowed in Worland, but the requirements may depend on your property and zoning district. Before purchasing chickens or selecting a coop, contact the City of Worland at (307) 347-2486 to ask about:
- The number of chickens permitted
- Rooster restrictions
- Permit or inspection requirements
- Coop size, construction, placement, and setbacks
Laws for Keeping Backyard Chickens in Wyoming By County
Backyard chicken laws are typically handled at the local level by city, county, or other municipal officials. If you live in an unincorporated area, contact your county to determine which requirements apply to your property. The table below lists every Wyoming county and the appropriate local department to contact.
Does Big Horn County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens in unincorporated Big Horn County, but you must submit a Development Application and pay a $50 fee before building a coop. Beyond this permit requirement, the county provides limited direction on flock size, roosters, coop standards, and setbacks. Flood hazard areas, airport protection zones, Shell Valley requirements, easements, and private covenants may affect your property. Separate rules apply inside incorporated towns.
Before purchasing chickens or planning your coop, contact the Big Horn County Land Planning Office at (307) 568-2424 to verify the current requirements for your property.
Does Carbon County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens may be allowed in unincorporated Carbon County, depending on your zoning district and approved property use. You do not need an annual permit simply to keep a noncommercial flock, but you may need site plan approval and a building permit or zoning certificate for the coop.
- Roosters: The county does not place a specific limit on roosters, but noise, odors, and waste can lead to nuisance enforcement.
- Zoning Requirements: Agriculture and certain noncommercial livestock uses are permitted in the RAM, FPSR, RRA, and RD districts. PUD and other districts have property-specific requirements.
- Coop Requirements: A one-story detached accessory structure of 120 square feet or less may qualify for a building permit exemption. Ask the county if your coop qualifies.
- Setbacks: Coops must be at least 40 feet from property lines in RAM zoning and 25 feet from property lines in FPSR, RRA, and RD zoning. Additional setbacks apply near scenic roads, streams, and irregularly shaped lots.
- Sanitation: Properly contain manure, bedding, garbage, and other waste. Prevent persistent odors, standing water, flies, and rodents.
These rules only apply to unincorporated areas. Before purchasing chickens or locating a coop, contact Carbon County Planning and Development at (307) 328-2651 to check your zoning, setbacks, and permit requirements.
Does Converse County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens in unincorporated Converse County without a county chicken keeping permit. The county does not set a flock limit, prohibit roosters, or establish specific coop and setback requirements, but easements, floodplain regulations, Airport Influence Area standards, and private covenants may affect your setup. Properties inside Douglas, Glenrock, Rolling Hills, Lost Springs, or another municipality follow local rules instead.
Before getting chickens or building a coop, contact Converse County Special Projects at (307) 358-1990 or specialprojects@conversecountywy.gov to verify the requirements for your property.
Does Crook County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens in unincorporated Crook County without a county chicken keeping permit, zoning permit, or coop building permit. The county does not set a flock limit, prohibit roosters, or establish specific coop and setback requirements. Easements, subdivision covenants, deed restrictions, and other private property rules may still affect your flock or coop. Separate municipal regulations apply inside Hulett, Moorcroft, Pine Haven, and Sundance.
Before purchasing chickens or building a coop, contact Crook County Planning at (307) 283-4548 to make sure your property is unincorporated and check for any applicable restrictions.
Does Fremont County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens in unincorporated Fremont County without a county chicken keeping permit or general building permit for an ordinary residential coop. The county does not set a flock limit, prohibit roosters, or establish standard coop setbacks. However, floodplain requirements, tribal rules, South Pass City historic zoning, easements, subdivision plats, and private covenants may affect your property. A floodplain development permit is required when the coop will be placed in a mapped floodplain.
Contact Fremont County Planning and Rural Addressing at (307) 332-1077 to verify the requirements for your property before purchasing chickens or placing a coop.
Does Goshen County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens on unincorporated property in Goshen County without a county chicken keeping or coop permit for a typical flock. The county does not set a residential flock limit, prohibit roosters, or establish specific coop and setback standards. A floodplain permit may be required when construction occurs within a mapped floodplain, and private covenants can impose additional restrictions. Properties inside Torrington, Lingle, Fort Laramie, LaGrange, and Yoder follow local municipal rules.
Before building a coop, contact Goshen County Planning and GIS at (307) 532-3852 to make sure your property is unincorporated and check its floodplain status.
Does Hot Springs County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens may be allowed in unincorporated Hot Springs County, but the requirements depend on your property’s land use classification and recorded restrictions. You do not need a separate county permit simply to keep chickens, although a Land Development Permit may be required for a new coop or a change in approved land use. The county provides limited direction on flock size, roosters, coop standards, and setbacks.
Before purchasing chickens or installing a coop, contact the Hot Springs County Planning Office at (307) 864-2961 or hscplanner@hscounty.com to verify the permitted use, setbacks, and permit requirements for your parcel.
Does Johnson County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens in unincorporated Johnson County without a dedicated county chicken permit. The county does not set a flock limit, prohibit roosters, or establish a one-coop setback for every property. Building envelopes, easements, subdivision conditions, floodplain requirements, and private covenants may affect coop placement. Chickens must remain on your property, and your setup cannot create odor, pest, or nuisance problems. Separate rules apply inside Buffalo and Kaycee.
Before building a coop, contact the Johnson County Planning Department at (307) 684-1907 to verify the placement and approval requirements for your property.
Does Laramie County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens on unincorporated property in Laramie County without a separate chicken-keeping permit. Your flock must be kept humanely and cannot create a nuisance.
- Roosters: Roosters are not specifically prohibited, but crowing can violate nuisance standards.
- Permit Requirements: A one-story detached coop or accessory structure of up to 400 square feet is exempt from a county building permit. Larger co-ops require review.
- Zoning Requirements: Poultry are classified as livestock and are allowed throughout unincorporated Laramie County when kept humanely and without creating a nuisance.
- Coop Requirements: A permanent coop is treated as an accessory structure and must comply with the lot coverage limit for your zoning district.
- Setbacks: In URLD zoning, keep the coop at least 25 feet from the front or street side. In URMD zoning, maintain a minimum of 20 feet. Side and rear setbacks are generally 5 or 10 feet, depending on wall height.
- Sanitation: Contain manure, bedding, spilled feed, garbage, and other waste.
Contact Laramie County Planning and Development at (307) 633-4303 to check your zoning, setbacks, easements, and building permit requirements.
Does Albany County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep a small, personal flock in every zoning district in unincorporated Albany County. A zoning certificate may be required for the use or coop, and enclosure requirements vary by zoning district. Properties inside Laramie, Rock River, or another incorporated municipality follow local rules instead.
- Permit Requirements: You do not need a separate county chicken license. A Land Zoning Certificate may be required to begin the use, while a Structure Zoning Certificate may be required for a permanent coop. Accessory buildings of 144 square feet or less are exempt from the structure certificate requirement.
- Zoning Requirements: Small scale, noncommercial chicken keeping is allowed in A, AR, RR, RA, SLR, UR, C, NB, and I districts.
- Setbacks: Permanent coops must remain at least 20 feet from property lines in A zoning and 10 feet from property lines in AR, RR, RA, SLR, UR, NB, and I zoning. In C zoning, maintain at least 10 feet from side and rear property lines and 50 feet from frontage property lines.
- Confinement: Chickens must be fenced or otherwise enclosed in RA, SLR, UR, C, NB, and I districts.
- Sanitation: Store and dispose of manure so it does not create a health hazard, attract pests, or contaminate water. Prevent odors, noise, and waste from creating a nuisance.
Before purchasing chickens or selecting a coop, contact the Albany County Planning Department at (307) 721-2568 to check rooster eligibility, enclosure requirements, setbacks, and any zoning certificates required for your property.
Does Lincoln County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens may be allowed in unincorporated Lincoln County, depending on your property’s zoning, overlays, and recorded restrictions. You do not need a separate permit for an ordinary personal flock, and detached coops smaller than 800 square feet are generally permit exempt unless they are located in a floodplain or airport safety zone. Coops must remain within the property’s buildable area, outside recorded easements, and meet the applicable setbacks.
Before purchasing chickens or selecting a coop location, contact the Lincoln County Office of Planning and Development at (307) 885-3106 or (307) 877-9056 to verify that chickens are permitted and check the setbacks and permit requirements for your property.
Does Natrona County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens may be allowed on unincorporated property in Natrona County when your zoning district permits Light Agriculture uses. You do not need a separate annual permit simply to keep a qualifying noncommercial flock, but the coop may require zoning or building approval.
- Number of Chickens: The county does not set a numerical flock limit. Your flock must remain for noncommercial use that primarily serves residents of the property.
- Roosters: Eligibility may depend on prior approvals, PUD conditions, covenants, HOA rules, and nuisance standards.
- Permit Requirements: A zoning certificate generally costs $50. Some movable coops under 225 square feet may qualify for an exemption. A one-story detached accessory structure of up to 200 square feet is exempt from a building permit.
- Zoning Requirements: Light Agriculture is permitted in RAM, UA, MR 1, MR 2, RR, SR, UR, and UMR districts.
- Setbacks: In RAM, UA, MR 1, and MR 2, maintain 25 feet from public roads and 10 feet from property lines. In SR, RR, UR, and UMR, maintain 25 feet from public roads, 5 feet from front and side property lines, and 8 feet from rear property lines.
- Sanitation: Properly contain manure, waste, and refuse and prevent odors and pests.
Contact the Natrona County Planning Department at (307) 235-9447 to check your zoning and coop requirements.
Does Niobrara County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens may be allowed in unincorporated Niobrara County, depending on your property’s land use classification. You do not need a separate chicken permit or coop building permit, but a $40 zoning change application may be required if your property is not already approved for agricultural use. The county does not set a household flock limit, prohibit roosters, or establish one coop setback for every parcel.
Before purchasing chickens or building a coop, contact Niobrara County Planning and Zoning at (307) 334-2211 to verify your land use classification, coop placement requirements, and the need for a zoning change.
Does Park County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens on unincorporated property in Park County, but you must obtain a $75 Building and Zoning Permit before getting chickens or placing a coop. Properties inside incorporated cities and towns follow their own municipal regulations.
- Permit Requirements: Submit a Building and Zoning Permit application with a plot plan showing your lot dimensions, existing and proposed buildings, intended use, and proposed construction. A separate Floodplain Development Permit may be required in a Special Flood Hazard Area.
- Zoning Requirements: Poultry keeping for personal use or sale is allowed by right in all county zoning districts.
- Coop Requirements: A covered coop is considered a building and must be included in your Building and Zoning Permit.
- Placement and Setbacks: Keep the coop at least 20 feet from the edge of a county road right of way and at least 5 feet from an alley. Easements, subdivision conditions, floodplain rules, and private covenants may require additional separation.
- Sanitation: Do not allow manure or animal waste to attract rodents or insects. Waste runoff cannot enter neighboring properties or drainage areas.
Before purchasing chickens or placing a coop, contact the Park County Planning and Zoning Department at (307) 527-8540 in Cody or (307) 754-8540 in Powell to verify the permit and placement requirements for your property.
Does Platte County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens are allowed on unincorporated Platte County property zoned for Ranching, Agricultural, and Mining. Residentially zoned properties require approval from the County Planning Office before you add chickens or install a coop..
- Roosters: The county does not place a specific limit on roosters. Residential zoning approval is still required before keeping any poultry.
- Permit Requirements: Poultry keeping in RAM zoning does not require a chicken permit or Special Use Permit. A Special Use Permit or rezoning may be required in Class I or Class II residential districts.
- Zoning Requirements: Poultry qualify as livestock and are allowed as part of farming and animal husbandry in RAM zoning.
- Setbacks: In RAM zoning, keep permanent buildings at least 30 feet from public roadway easements or rights-of-way and 25 feet from property lines. Class I and Class II residential districts have different setback requirements.
- Sanitation: Provide confined poultry with enough food and water. Prevent runoff from entering ditches, creeks, ponds, and other surface waters.
Contact Platte County Planning and Zoning at (307) 322-1330 to check your zoning, required approval, and coop setbacks.
Does Sheridan County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens may be allowed in unincorporated Sheridan County, but eligibility depends on your zoning district and property. A $150 zoning certificate is generally required before you begin keeping chickens or build a coop, although certain small animal shelters may qualify for an exemption.
- Permit Requirements: A detached animal shelter no larger than 120 square feet and less than 10 feet high may qualify for a zoning certificate exemption. Larger coops may require additional zoning or building review.
- Zoning Requirements: Agriculture is an intended use in UR, RR, A, I 1, and I 2 districts. Chicken keeping on C 1, C 2, or C 3 property requires approval from Planning.
- Setbacks: In UR, RR, and A districts, structures generally must remain at least 25 feet from the front property line, 20 feet from the rear, and 5 feet from the side.
PUD standards, HOA rules, leases, and subdivision covenants may impose additional restrictions. Before purchasing chickens or selecting a coop, contact Sheridan County Public Works, Planning, and Code Enforcement at (307) 675-2420 to check chicken and rooster eligibility, permit requirements, and setbacks for your property.
Does Sublette County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Chicken keeping requirements in unincorporated Sublette County depend on your property’s zoning and lot size. You do not need a separate poultry-keeping permit for a compliant personal flock.
- Number of Chickens: Lots smaller than one acre may have up to 8 hens and ducks over 100 days old. A one-acre property may have up to 20 poultry. Properties of at least two acres may have up to 10 poultry per acre. Livestock is prohibited in R 6000 zoning.
- Roosters: Roosters are prohibited on lots smaller than one acre. Ask Planning and Zoning about the requirements for roosters on larger properties.
- Permit Requirements: A detached, roofed coop of 400 square feet or less does not require a county building permit. Larger coops require a permit.
- Coop Requirements: On lots smaller than one acre, provide at least 9 square feet of space per bird and a ceiling height of at least 2 feet.
- Setbacks: On lots smaller than one acre, keep the enclosure at least 20 feet from every neighboring residence unless the neighbor provides written consent. Zoning district setbacks also apply.
- Confinement: Chickens must remain confined, restrained, or under your direct supervision.
- Sanitation: Prevent odors, noise, manure, bedding, and feed from creating a nuisance or health hazard.
Contact Sublette County Planning and Zoning at (307) 367-4375 to check your flock limit, rooster allowance, setbacks, and permit requirements.
Does Sweetwater County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens may be allowed in unincorporated Sweetwater County, depending on your zoning district. You do not need a separate chicken keeping permit, but the coop may require county approval.
- Permit Requirements: A detached, one-story coop of 200 square feet or less does not require a zoning permit when it meets all exemption conditions and setbacks. Larger or attached co-ops may require a Construction Permit.
- Zoning Requirements: Noncommercial agriculture is allowed in A zoning and as an accessory use in RR, R 2, and R 2/SF zoning. Your flock must remain a noncommercial use that primarily serves residents of the property.
- Sanitation: Prevent manure, animal waste, and standing water from creating health hazards or attracting rodents and insects.
Coop setbacks vary by zoning district, and additional separation from nearby structures may apply. Before purchasing chickens or selecting a coop, contact the Sweetwater County Land Use Department at (307) 872-3914 or (307) 922-5430 to check chicken and rooster eligibility, setbacks, and permit requirements for your property.
Does Teton County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens may be allowed in unincorporated Teton County when your zoning district permits agriculture. Planning review, a Natural Resources Assessment, or a building permit may still be required.
- Permit Requirements: A one-story, nonhabitable accessory structure of 200 square feet or less may qualify for a building permit exemption, but Planning review may still apply.
- Zoning Requirements: Agriculture is allowed in NR 1, WHB, R 1, R 2, R 3, AC TC, OP TC, BC TC, NC TC, S TC, R TC, P/SP TC, and P TC zoning.
- Coop Requirements: The coop and run must be bear-proof. Acceptable options include a roofed, hard-sided structure, fully enclosed chain link fencing, maintained electric fencing, or a combination of these methods.
- Confinement: The entire chicken-keeping area, including any outdoor run or yard, must remain within the bear-resistant enclosure.
- Sanitation: Store chicken feed and refuse inside bear resistant containers or enclosures.
Environmental buffers and property specific setbacks may affect coop placement, especially near rivers, wetlands, and irrigation ditches. Before purchasing chickens or planning your enclosure, contact Teton County Planning at (307) 733-3959 to check chicken and rooster eligibility, setbacks, Natural Resources Assessment requirements, and permits for your property.
Does Uinta County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens may be allowed in unincorporated Uinta County, depending on your zoning district and how Planning classifies the use. You do not need a separate county chicken license, but a Land Use Certificate or Conditional Use Permit may be required.
- Permit Requirements: Agricultural activity in Agriculture and Resource Development zoning generally does not require a Use Certificate. If chickens are classified as an unlisted use, you may need a $200 Conditional Use Permit.
- Zoning Requirements: Agricultural chicken keeping has the clearest authorization in Agriculture and Resource Development zoning. Flock size must reflect the property’s carrying capacity. Residential, Commercial, and Industrial properties require a determination from Planning.
- Coop Requirements: In Residential zoning, an accessory building of 200 square feet or less is allowed by right. Larger buildings require a Use Certificate.
- Setbacks: In Residential zoning, structures must remain at least 20 feet from the front, 5 feet from interior side property lines, 12 feet from a side street, and 10 feet from the rear. A 2-foot rear setback may apply when an alley serves the property.
- Sanitation: Secure refuse containers and prevent odors, noise, dust, and pests from affecting neighboring properties.
Before purchasing chickens or choosing a coop, contact Uinta County Planning and Zoning at (307) 783-0318 to check chicken and rooster eligibility, flock size, setbacks, and required approval for your property.
Does Washakie County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens on unincorporated property in Washakie County without a county chicken keeping permit. The county does not use zoning districts or establish specific flock limits, rooster restrictions, coop standards, or setbacks for unincorporated properties. Easements, subdivision plats, roadway rights-of-way, wastewater systems, and private covenants may still affect your setup. Separate rules apply inside Worland, while chickens are prohibited in Ten Sleep.
Contact the Washakie County Planning Office at (307) 347-6778 to make sure your property is unincorporated and verify any placement restrictions before building a coop.
Does Weston County, WY, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep backyard chickens on unincorporated property in Weston County without a county chicken keeping permit. The county does not set a flock limit, prohibit roosters, or establish specific coop and setback requirements. You must provide sufficient food, water, and weather protection and keep manure, odors, standing water, flies, and rodents under control. Easements, subdivision plats, and private covenants may also affect your setup. Separate municipal rules apply inside Newcastle and Upton.
Before building a permanent coop, contact Weston County Planning and Zoning at (307) 746-4744 to make sure your property is unincorporated and verify any applicable restrictions.
How to Find Wyoming-Compliant Chicken Coops for Sale Near You
Once you understand your local requirements, you can choose a coop that fits your flock and property. Many Wyoming communities regulate enclosure size, attached runs, placement, sanitation, and other features, so keep those standards in mind as you compare your options.
The Hen House Collection offers a range of chicken coop styles, sizes, and features to help you meet your area’s requirements. Our network of local dealers delivers throughout Wyoming and can help you find the right setup for your flock. Request a quote from a local dealer or shop our in-stock inventory to get started.
Hanna Ingold
Hanna Ingold is an expert with The Hen House Collection, specializing in chicken coop regulations and poultry care. She helps homeowners navigate local state zoning and building law requirements while ensuring their chicken coops are safe, legal, and well-designed. In addition to her expertise, Hanna is highly knowledgeable in chicken care, including flock health, nutrition, and coop design, making her a trusted resource for healthy chicken keeping.
