Statewide Baseline (What Arizona Law Guarantees)
- Small flocks are allowed: Up to six chickens may be kept at single‑family homes on lots of ½ acre or less.
- Local limits still apply: Cities and counties can set reasonable rules—like coop placement, cleanliness, and enclosure size.
- Roosters may be restricted: Many places prohibit male birds due to noise.
- Minimum placement & upkeep: Expect requirements like keeping hens in a rear/side yard, at least a set distance from neighboring property, routine manure clean‑up, pest‑proof feed storage, and good drainage.
HOA note: Homeowners associations can be stricter than the city—always read your CC&Rs.
What This Means in Practice
- Plan for six or fewer hens. Most places cap small backyards at six birds.
- Coops in the rear or side yard. Keep hens enclosed; no free‑ranging into streets or neighbors’ yards.
- Mind your setbacks. Typical rules require a coop to sit a specific distance from property lines or residences.
- Keep it clean. Expect twice‑weekly manure removal and tidy feed storage to deter rodents and insects.
City Snapshots (Examples)
Phoenix
- Long‑standing rule to keep poultry 80 feet from any residence, unless neighbors closer than that give written permission.
- Property size and neighbor‑permission rules may affect your bird count and placement.
Chandler
- Up to five hens at single‑family homes; no roosters.
- Coops must sit at least five feet from property lines and stay below the height of the yard wall.
- Oversized or wired coops may need permits; clean droppings at least twice weekly.
Mesa
- On lots under ½ acre, a total of up to 10 fowl (counting rabbits) is allowed.
- Roosters are permitted only if they do not create a noise disturbance.
- Flock must be contained on your property and comply with distance/containment rules.
Goodyear
- Up to six hens; no roosters.
- Enclosure must be in the rear/side yard and at least 20 feet from neighboring property.
- Enclosure size capped around 200 sq ft, height limits apply (often below the fence line).
- Clean at least twice per week; keep feed in rodent/insect‑proof containers; ensure proper drainage and composting.
Quick Compliance Checklist
- Count your hens: Stay at or under the allowed number (often six; some cities differ).
- Place your coop correctly: Rear or side yard only, with required setback from property lines or homes.
- Secure and ventilate: Predator‑resistant fencing, solid roofing, shade, and airflow.
- Sanitation routine: Pick up droppings at least twice weekly; store feed to deter pests.
- Noise control: Avoid roosters where prohibited; handle early‑morning noise with good coop design and light management.
- Paperwork: If your coop is large or has utilities, check if you need a building or accessory structure permit.
- Check your HOA: CC&Rs can be stricter than city rules.
FAQ
Can my city still ban backyard chickens?
No for most single‑family homes—state law preempts outright bans. Your city can still set reasonable rules for number, setbacks, and maintenance.
Are roosters allowed?
Often no. Many Arizona communities prohibit roosters because of noise. Hens lay eggs without a rooster.
How many hens can I keep?
The state baseline is six on smaller residential lots. Some cities differ slightly (for example, five in certain places), so always check your local code.
Where should the coop go?
Typically in the rear or side yard, a set distance from property lines or neighboring homes. Measure carefully before you build.
Do I need a permit?
If your coop exceeds a size threshold or has utilities (electricity/water), you may need a permit. Check with your city’s planning/building department.
Bottom Line
Arizona now gives homeowners a clear path to keep a modest backyard flock. Follow your city’s placement and care rules, keep things clean and quiet, and confirm any HOA restrictions. With a tidy coop and a small group of hens, you can enjoy fresh eggs while staying fully compliant.