Can I keep chickens in Grand Forks, ND?

Yes, with conditions — Grand Forks allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 6 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited. (Chapter XI (Animals and Fowl), § 11-0120, verified June 2026)

◐ Allowed with conditions6 hens max🚫 No roostersPermit / registration required
How many hens can you keep?
In permitted zones: You can keep up to 6 hens in Grand Forks.

The full rules

Chickens allowedConditional (zone / lot rules)
Maximum hens6
RoostersProhibited
Permit requiredYes
Coop rulesFowl must be maintained in sanitary conditions; permit subject to health department approval; written consent required from all property owners within approximately 60 feet of the property
Code sectionChapter XI (Animals and Fowl), § 11-0120

Grand Forks allows chickens under a permit system administered by Grand Forks Public Health (revised July 2021). A maximum of 6 chickens are allowed (out of up to 12 total fowl), and applicants must obtain written consent from all property owners within approximately 60 feet of the property. Permits are revocable for nuisance conditions.

Chickens are allowed in Grand Forks with conditions. Ready to start your flock? Compare the top US hatcheries that ship day-old chicks to your door — ranked by minimum order, breed selection, and live-arrival guarantees. Find your hatchery →
Sell chicken feed, coops, or chicks? Reach people researching backyard chickens in their city — sponsor CoopCodes.

Common questions

Can I keep chickens in Grand Forks?

Yes, with conditions — Grand Forks allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Chapter XI (Animals and Fowl), § 11-0120).

How many chickens can I keep in Grand Forks?

Up to 6 hens. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.

Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Grand Forks?

Yes — Grand Forks requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.

Are roosters allowed in Grand Forks?

No — roosters are prohibited in Grand Forks.

What law covers backyard chickens in Grand Forks?

Chapter XI (Animals and Fowl), § 11-0120. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.

The actual law

Chapter XI (Animals and Fowl), § 11-0120read the official code

Chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, doves, pigeons, or other fowl are not allowed to be kept within city limits unless the proper permits have been acquired and approved by Grand Forks Public Health.source
§ 11-0120; written consent required from all owners of real property located within sixty (60) feet; up to 12 fowl, no more than 6 being chickenssource

Last verified June 15, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →

Get notified if Grand Forks’s ordinance changes
Sell chicken feed, coops, or chicks?

Reach people actively researching backyard chickens in their city. Founding sponsor slots now open.

Apply to become a sponsor →

Nearby & related

Chickens in BismarckChickens in Devils LakeChickens in DickinsonChickens in FargoChickens in HazenChickens in HoraceChickens in JamestownChickens in LincolnChickens in MandanChickens in MinotChickens in RugbyChickens in Valley CityAll ND cities