I was excited to learn about the new Oklahoma City chicken ordinance which went into effect on March 4, 2022.
Previously, the city only allowed chickens and quail on properties an acre or larger, which made it difficult for many residents who live on smaller plots of land to enjoy the benefits of backyard chickens.
Now, with the new ordinance in place, residents are allowed to raise up to six chickens or quail in their backyard, with a few important regulations in place to protect the animals and their neighbors.
Regulations for Raising Chickens and Quail in Oklahoma City
The regulations set forth in the ordinance are designed to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals, as well as the peace and enjoyment of neighboring properties. Here are the key regulations for raising chickens and quail in Oklahoma City:
- Coop Space Requirements: Animal owners must provide at least four square feet of space per animal in their coop, with at least eight square feet of roaming space per animal. The coop must also be kept clean and protected from predators.
- Food and Water: Chickens and quail must have access to food and water at all times, and must be kept in the coop from dusk to dawn.
- Location Requirements: Chicken coops must be located at least five feet away from the side property line, ten feet away from the back property line, and at least 30 feet from an adjacent dwelling.
- Roosters Not Allowed: Roosters are not allowed under the ordinance, as they can be loud and disruptive to neighbors.
- Complaint-Based Enforcement: There are no permits or fees required to raise chickens or quail, but enforcement will be on a complaint basis. Neighborhoods with covenants against raising chickens or quail are not required to allow them and may privately enforce their covenants through legal means. The outdoor slaughter of chickens is also not allowed.
- Neighborhoods with covenants against raising chickens or quail are not required to allow them and may privately enforce their covenants through legal means. It’s important to check with your neighborhood association or homeowners’ association to ensure that you are not violating any neighborhood covenants.
Penalties for Violations of the Ordinance
It’s important to follow these regulations to avoid any fines or penalties. If you violate the ordinance, you can be fined up to $500 for the first offense, $1200 for the third or subsequent offense, and potentially face jail time not to exceed six months.
If you have a neighbor who is violating the regulations, you can submit a complaint to the City’s Action Center by emailing action.center@okc.gov, calling (405) 297-2535, or filing a report online at okc.gov/action.
Inspections
The enforcement of these rules will occur when a complaint is filed. The Action Center will inspect the reports to ensure that the conditions have been met. Violations must be easily visible to a City Inspector.
Inspectors must receive permission from the property owner or an adjacent property owner to view the premises, such as from behind a fence. If necessary, the City may obtain an administrative search warrant to inspect the alleged premises for a complaint inspection.
My Thoughts on the Oklahoma City Chicken Ordinance
Overall, I think the new Oklahoma City chicken ordinance is a positive development for residents who want to raise chickens or quail in their backyard. It provides clear regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals, while also taking into account the concerns of neighboring properties.
I know firsthand the benefits of having fresh eggs and the joy of watching these creatures thrive. I hope that other cities will follow suit and enact similar ordinances to allow more people to experience the joys of backyard chickens.
Conclusion
The Oklahoma City chicken ordinance is a great step forward for those who want to raise chickens or quail in their backyard. The regulations set forth in the ordinance are designed to protect the animals and ensure the peace and enjoyment of neighboring properties. Remember to follow these regulations to avoid any fines or penalties, and to submit a complaint if you see any violations of the ordinance.
