In May 2024, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs signed House Bill 2325 into law, changing the legal landscape for backyard chicken ownership across the state. This legislation was crafted in response to growing interest in local food security and frustration with city bans that prevented families from keeping hens at their homes. With this law, Arizona became one of the most poultry-friendly states in the nation, granting single-family homeowners the legal right to keep backyard hens—regardless of restrictive city ordinances.
1. What Does HB 2325 Do?
The new law makes it unlawful for Arizona cities or towns to prohibit the keeping of chickens at single-family residences. Specifically:
- Every single-family homeowner may keep up to six hens (female chickens).
- Roosters are not permitted, given their noise and nuisance potential.
- The law applies statewide, overriding municipal bans or restrictive local ordinances.
- Cities may still regulate coop design, setbacks, and sanitation, but they cannot ban hens outright.
2. Why Was the Law Needed?
Before HB 2325, Arizona’s chicken laws varied widely from city to city. Some municipalities like Phoenix allowed hens with restrictions, while others had outright bans. This patchwork system left many residents unable to raise hens, even though they owned sufficient land. HB 2325 eliminated this inconsistency and established a uniform standard across the state.
Rising egg prices, supply chain disruptions, and the desire for local food independence fueled demand for reform. Supporters also argued that keeping a few hens is less disruptive than owning multiple barking dogs, while offering direct food benefits to families.
3. Key Features of the Law
| Category | Details Under HB 2325 |
|---|---|
| Applies To | Single-family homes statewide |
| Maximum Hens | 6 hens allowed per property |
| Roosters | Not permitted |
| Municipal Power | Cities cannot ban hens, but may regulate coop placement, setbacks, and cleanliness |
| HOAs | Homeowners’ associations may still impose their own restrictions |
| Effective Date | 90 days after signing (Summer 2024) |
4. What About HOAs?
A crucial detail: HB 2325 does not override HOA rules. While cities cannot prohibit hens, HOAs are private contractual agreements. That means if your HOA forbids chickens, the ban still applies. Homeowners in HOA-governed communities must review covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) to see if hens are permitted.
5. What Cities Can Still Regulate
Though cities may not ban hens, they retain authority to pass “time, place, and manner” regulations to protect public health and safety. This means local governments can:
- Require coops to meet setback distances from property lines or neighboring homes.
- Set minimum space requirements per chicken (often 10–20 square feet per bird in outdoor runs).
- Mandate predator-proofing, secure feed storage, and sanitation measures.
- Prohibit free-ranging outside enclosed areas.
6. Benefits for Homeowners
- Fresh eggs: A small flock can produce dozens of eggs each week.
- Food security: Reduces reliance on grocery store supply chains.
- Sustainability: Hens eat kitchen scraps and provide compostable manure.
- Education: Great opportunity for children to learn responsibility and agriculture basics.
- Community connection: Sharing eggs helps foster neighborly goodwill.
7. Limitations and Responsibilities
While the law is favorable to chicken enthusiasts, it doesn’t give unlimited freedom. Hens must be kept responsibly. That includes:
- Maintaining coops regularly to prevent odors.
- Ensuring feed is stored in rodent-proof containers.
- Complying with setback and structural rules adopted by the city.
- Respecting HOA covenants if applicable.
8. Practical Tips for Arizona Chicken Owners
- Check your HOA documents before purchasing hens.
- Research your city’s coop setback rules to avoid violations.
- Invest in a quality coop with ventilation, predator protection, and easy cleaning access.
- Start with 3–4 hens instead of the maximum six to learn the ropes.
- Keep open communication with neighbors to prevent complaints.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep roosters under HB 2325?
No. Roosters remain prohibited due to noise concerns.
Do I need a permit?
The law does not require a state permit. Cities may create local coop registration programs, but none can ban hens outright.
Does this apply to duplexes or apartments?
No. The law only applies to single-family homes.
Can I sell eggs?
Egg sales are regulated under state food safety laws. Small-scale egg sales may be possible, but HB 2325 was designed primarily for personal use.
10. Final Thoughts
Governor Katie Hobbs’ signing of HB 2325 marked a major milestone for urban agriculture in Arizona. By overriding city bans, the state guaranteed every single-family homeowner the right to keep hens—so long as they do so responsibly. The law empowers families to take greater control over their food supply, embrace sustainable practices, and reconnect with agricultural traditions. While HOAs and city regulations may still shape the details, the fundamental right to keep backyard hens is now protected across Arizona.