Can I keep chickens in Missoula, MT?
Yes — Missoula allows backyard chickens, up to 6 hens with a required permit/registration. Coops must be at least 20 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Missoula Municipal Code Title 6, Ch. 6.12, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Yes |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Permit required | Yes ($15) |
| Coop setback | 20 ft |
| Coop rules | Covered, predator-proof, ventilated coop >=2 sq ft/chicken; located at least 20 ft from any residential structure occupied by another; feed in rodent-proof container. |
| Code section | Missoula Municipal Code Title 6, Ch. 6.12 |
Missoula residents may keep up to six female chickens on a single parcel within city limits with an annual $15 permit; non-owners need the parcel owner's written permission. Coops must be predator-proof, at least 2 sq ft per bird, and located at least 20 ft from any residential structure occupied by someone other than the keeper.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Missoula?
Yes — chickens are allowed in Missoula (Missoula Municipal Code Title 6, Ch. 6.12).
How many chickens can I keep in Missoula?
Up to 6 hens.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Missoula?
Yes — Missoula requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens (fee: $15).
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Missoula?
20 feet minimum. Covered, predator-proof, ventilated coop >=2 sq ft/chicken; located at least 20 ft from any residential structure occupied by another; feed in rodent-proof container.
What law covers backyard chickens in Missoula?
Missoula Municipal Code Title 6, Ch. 6.12. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Missoula Municipal Code Title 6, Ch. 6.12 — read the official code
“Missoula residents are allowed up to 6 female chickens (hens) on a single parcel located within the city limits.” source
“Chicken permits are $15 for up to 6 hens per year.” source
“No chicken house shall be located closer than 20 feet to any residential structure occupied by someone other than the chicken owner, custodian, or keeper.” 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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