Are Backyard Chickens Legal in Texas? (2026)
Yes — Backyard Chickens are legal in Texas as of 2026.
Law changed in 2025: A bill was introduced in 2025 that would limit the power of HOAs to ban backyard chickens, but it has not been passed. There have been no other significant statewide legislative changes since 2023.
Quick Answer
Backyard Chickens are legal in Texas. A bill was introduced in 2025 that would limit the power of HOAs to ban backyard chickens, but it has not been passed.
What the Law Says
Texas has no state law on backyard chickens. Many cities have ordinances that allow for a small number of hens.
— Tex. Prop. Code § 202.020
| 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 bill was introduced in 2025 that would limit the power of HOAs to ban backyard chickens, but it has not been passed. There have been no other significant statewide legislative changes since 2023.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is handled by local municipalities, with cities like Watauga and Carrollton having specific ordinances. The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) oversees statewide animal health and import regulations.
A common mistake is not being aware of local ordinances, as rules vary significantly by city. Another is not adhering to local rooster bans and flock size limits where they exist.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Texas. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Backyard Chickens are legal in Texas. You can keeping backyard chickens without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Texas 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. Texas 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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