Can I keep chickens in Yakima, WA?
Yes — Yakima allows backyard chickens, up to 4 hens with no permit required. Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 10 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (YMC 15.04.060(D), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Yes |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 4 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Coop setback | 10 ft |
| Coop rules | Coops/chicken tractors 10+ ft from any residence or property line, 5 ft from other structures; hen houses restricted to backyard; fencing required to contain birds. |
| Code section | YMC 15.04.060(D) |
Yakima permits up to 4 hen chickens (fewer than five, no roosters) as an accessory pet use in residential districts. Coops must be in the backyard, 10 ft from any residence or property line, with containment fencing. No permit or minimum lot size.
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Get the media kit →Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Yakima?
Yes — chickens are allowed in Yakima (YMC 15.04.060(D)).
How many chickens can I keep in Yakima?
Up to 4 hens.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Yakima?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Yakima.
Are roosters allowed in Yakima?
No — roosters are prohibited in Yakima.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Yakima?
10 feet minimum. Coops/chicken tractors 10+ ft from any residence or property line, 5 ft from other structures; hen houses restricted to backyard; fencing required to contain birds.
What law covers backyard chickens in Yakima?
YMC 15.04.060(D). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
YMC 15.04.060(D) — read the official code
“domesticated animals kept for pleasure or as a hobby rather than utility, including, but not limited to ... hen chickens (no roosters), fewer than five” source
“Any chicken coops, chicken tractors, or rabbit hutches shall be set back ten or more feet from any residence or property line, and five feet from other structures including decks” source
Last verified June 11, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code.
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