Are Backyard Chickens Legal in Colorado? (2026)
Yes — Backyard Chickens are legal in Colorado as of 2026.
Law changed in 2025: A major change was the full implementation of HB20-1343 in 2025, requiring all egg-laying hens to be in cage-free housing, reflecting a statewide focus on animal welfare.
Quick Answer
Backyard Chickens are legal in Colorado. A major change was the full implementation of HB20-1343 in 2025, requiring all egg-laying hens to be in cage-free housing, reflecting a statewide focus on animal welfare.
What the Law Says
Colorado has no state prohibition on backyard chickens, but local ordinances are prevalent, with many cities requiring permits and setting limits on the number of hens.
— Colorado Agriculture & Animal Code (Justia)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State Regulations | Legal under state law; local ordinances vary widely |
| Local Ordinance Rules | Legal to sell chickens and supplies |
| Violation Penalties | Violations of local ordinances may result in fines or required removal of chickens. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
A major change was the full implementation of HB20-1343 in 2025, requiring all egg-laying hens to be in cage-free housing, reflecting a statewide focus on animal welfare.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is managed by local jurisdictions like Denver and Arapahoe County, which require permits and limit flock sizes. The Colorado Department of Agriculture oversees disease control and poultry movement.
Common errors include failing to obtain a local permit, exceeding the hen limit (often 4-6 hens), and illegally keeping roosters, which are banned in most cities due to noise.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Colorado. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Backyard Chickens are legal in Colorado. You can keeping backyard chickens without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Colorado vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, keeping backyard chickens is fully legal in 41 states, restricted in 9, and illegal in 0. Colorado falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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