Can I keep chickens in Pocatello, ID?
Yes, with conditions — Pocatello allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations. Coops must be at least 30 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Pocatello Municipal Code 6.04.200 (Permits for Keeping of Livestock, Small); 6.04.010 (definition), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop setback | 30 ft |
| Coop rules | Special permit required from the animal services director (fee per animal, set by council resolution); written consent of at least 75% of adult owners/occupants within 100 ft; an inspected/approved holding structure; no holding facility within 30 ft of a neighboring residence; annual renewal. |
| Code section | Pocatello Municipal Code 6.04.200 (Permits for Keeping of Livestock, Small); 6.04.010 (definition) |
Pocatello classifies chickens as 'small livestock' that may be kept only under a discretionary special permit issued by the animal services director, with a per-animal fee. The applicant must obtain written consent from at least 75% of adult owners/occupants within 100 ft, provide an inspected holding structure, and keep no holding facility within 30 ft of a neighboring residence. The code sets no fixed hen count, so the number is permit-discretionary and prospective keepers must apply.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Pocatello?
Yes, with conditions — Pocatello allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Pocatello Municipal Code 6.04.200 (Permits for Keeping of Livestock, Small); 6.04.010 (definition)).
How many chickens can I keep in Pocatello?
It depends on your lot. Discretionary per-animal special permit from animal services director; requires 75% neighbor written consent within 100 ft and an inspected holding structure. No fixed hen count in code; holding facility must be 30 ft from neighboring residence.. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Pocatello?
Yes — Pocatello requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Pocatello?
30 feet minimum. Special permit required from the animal services director (fee per animal, set by council resolution); written consent of at least 75% of adult owners/occupants within 100 ft; an inspected/approved holding structure; no holding facility within 30 ft of a neighboring residence; annual renewal.
What law covers backyard chickens in Pocatello?
Pocatello Municipal Code 6.04.200 (Permits for Keeping of Livestock, Small); 6.04.010 (definition). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Pocatello Municipal Code 6.04.200 (Permits for Keeping of Livestock, Small); 6.04.010 (definition) — read the official code
“LIVESTOCK, SMALL: Including, but not limited to, rabbits, ducks, chickens, pigeons, pheasants, peacocks, or other rare birds, or any other type of fowl or poultry.” source
“Persons wishing to keep small livestock as defined in this chapter, other than dogs, cats, shall apply in writing to the animal services director for a special permit.” source
“No person shall maintain or construct any holding facility within thirty feet (30') of the residence of any neighboring property.” 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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