Can I keep chickens in West Des Moines, IA?
Yes, with conditions — West Des Moines allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations. (City Code Sec. 5-3-18 (Ord. 2454; amd. Ord. 2621, 8-5-2024), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Coop rules | Chickens are 'agricultural production animals' and may not be kept outside a dwelling in standard residential zones. Allowed only on a 'Homesteader Farm' as defined and regulated in Title 9 (Zoning), or as otherwise required by law. |
| Code section | City Code Sec. 5-3-18 (Ord. 2454; amd. Ord. 2621, 8-5-2024) |
West Des Moines prohibits keeping agricultural production animals (which includes chickens) outside a dwelling in ordinary residential zones; the city's own FAQ confirms chickens are generally not allowed without specific zoning. Chickens are permitted only on a 'Homesteader Farm' as defined and regulated under Title 9 (Zoning).
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in West Des Moines?
Yes, with conditions — West Des Moines allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (City Code Sec. 5-3-18 (Ord. 2454; amd. Ord. 2621, 8-5-2024)).
How many chickens can I keep in West Des Moines?
It depends on your lot. Chickens prohibited in standard residential zones under Sec. 5-3-18(B); allowed only on a 'Homesteader Farm' regulated in Title 9 (Zoning). Numeric limits must be read from the Title 9 Homesteader Farm standards.. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
What law covers backyard chickens in West Des Moines?
City Code Sec. 5-3-18 (Ord. 2454; amd. Ord. 2621, 8-5-2024). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
City Code Sec. 5-3-18 (Ord. 2454; amd. Ord. 2621, 8-5-2024) — read the official code
“No person shall harbor, house or confine any agricultural production animal, commercial, agricultural production animal, personal, or any animal as defined by the Code of Iowa, Sec. 717.1, except as otherwise allowed as a Homesteader Farm defined and regulated in Title 9 or except as otherwise required by law.” source
“Chickens, ducks, and goats are generally not allowed without specific zoning.” 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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