Can I keep chickens in Bella Vista, AR?
Yes, with conditions — Bella Vista allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 4 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 25 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Sec. 109-167(c) (Animals - Hobby chickens), Chapter 109 Zoning, Article VI, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 4 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Coop setback | 25 ft |
| Home slaughter | Not allowed |
| Coop rules | Hens in a secured fenced enclosure of at least 100 sq ft, in side or rear yard only (not front), at least 25 ft from neighboring dwellings; kept neat/sanitary; feed in rodent-proof containers. Single-family dwellings only. |
| Code section | Sec. 109-167(c) (Animals - Hobby chickens), Chapter 109 Zoning, Article VI |
Bella Vista permits hobby chickens in permitted zoning districts at single-family dwellings only, capped at four hens with no roosters and no outside slaughter. Hens must be in a secured fenced enclosure of at least 100 square feet, located in the side or rear yard at least 25 feet from neighboring dwellings. Multifamily dwellings are excluded.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Bella Vista?
Yes, with conditions — Bella Vista allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Sec. 109-167(c) (Animals - Hobby chickens), Chapter 109 Zoning, Article VI).
How many chickens can I keep in Bella Vista?
Up to 4 hens. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Bella Vista?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Bella Vista.
Are roosters allowed in Bella Vista?
No — roosters are prohibited in Bella Vista.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Bella Vista?
25 feet minimum. Hens in a secured fenced enclosure of at least 100 sq ft, in side or rear yard only (not front), at least 25 ft from neighboring dwellings; kept neat/sanitary; feed in rodent-proof containers. Single-family dwellings only.
Can I slaughter chickens at home in Bella Vista?
No — slaughter is not permitted under Bella Vista's code.
What law covers backyard chickens in Bella Vista?
Sec. 109-167(c) (Animals - Hobby chickens), Chapter 109 Zoning, Article VI. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Sec. 109-167(c) (Animals - Hobby chickens), Chapter 109 Zoning, Article VI — read the official code
“All hens must be kept in a secured, fenced enclosure constructed with a minimum area of 100 square feet.” source
“Number permitted. No more than four hens shall be allowed for each single-family dwelling.” source
“No roosters shall be allowed under the provisions of this section.” source
“All hen enclosures shall be kept a minimum of 25 feet away from neighboring dwellings, measured from the adjoining property line.” source
Last verified June 14, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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