Is Backyard Chickens Legal in Missouri? (2026)
Yes — Backyard Chickens are legal in Missouri as of 2026.
Law changed in 2024: A 2024 state law that would have allowed backyard chickens regardless of HOA rules was struck down by a judge in late 2025, returning control to local governments and HOAs.
Quick Answer
Backyard Chickens are legal in Missouri. A 2024 state law that would have allowed backyard chickens regardless of HOA rules was struck down by a judge in late 2025, returning control to local governments and HOAs.
What the Law Says
Missouri has no state law on backyard chickens. Many cities have ordinances that allow for a small number of hens.
— RSMo § 442.404
| 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 2024 state law that would have allowed backyard chickens regardless of HOA rules was struck down by a judge in late 2025, returning control to local governments and HOAs.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is handled by local municipalities, with cities like Odessa and Creve Coeur having specific ordinances. The Missouri Department of Agriculture oversees statewide poultry health and inspection.
A common mistake is not being aware of local ordinances, as some cities have outright bans on backyard chickens. Another is not adhering to flock size limits and rooster prohibitions where chickens are allowed.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Missouri. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Backyard Chickens are legal in Missouri. You can keeping backyard chickens without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Missouri 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. Missouri falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Backyard Chickens:
Frequently Asked Questions
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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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