Can I keep chickens in Livingston, MT?
Yes, with conditions — Livingston allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations. (Livingston City Code Sec. 4-3 / 4-4, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop rules | Premises must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition at all times; permit revocable by the Sanitarian for failure to do so. |
| Code section | Livingston City Code Sec. 4-3 / 4-4 |
In Livingston, keeping fowl is unlawful within city limits unless the City Sanitarian issues a permit upon application; such permits are valid for two years and may be revoked for unsanitary conditions. The code sets no fixed numeric cap on fowl and no stated fee, so the allowance is discretionary and permit-based.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Livingston?
Yes, with conditions — Livingston allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Livingston City Code Sec. 4-3 / 4-4).
How many chickens can I keep in Livingston?
It depends on your lot. No numeric cap; keeping fowl requires a discretionary 2-year permit from the City Sanitarian under Sec. 4-3.. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Livingston?
Yes — Livingston requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
What law covers backyard chickens in Livingston?
Livingston City Code Sec. 4-3 / 4-4. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Livingston City Code Sec. 4-3 / 4-4 — read the official code
“The Sanitarian shall have the power and authority to revoke such permit if at any time the premises for which a permit is issued is not at all times maintained in a clean and sanitary condition.” source
“It shall be unlawful ... for any person to keep, harbor, or allow to be at large any livestock, fowl, or swine within the City limits, but the Sanitarian may, upon proper application, issue for a period of two (2) years, permits for keeping of livestock or fowl.” 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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