Can I keep chickens in West Fargo, ND?
Yes — West Fargo allows backyard chickens, up to 6 hens with a required permit/registration. Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 10 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (§ 11-0112 (Ordinance No. 1221, adopted April 2024), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Yes |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes ($25) |
| Coop setback | 10 ft |
| Coop rules | Coop max 7 ft height, min 4 sq ft per bird; run max 10 sq ft per bird; not in front yard; at least 3 ft from adjacent structures; 10 ft from all property lines; chickens confined to coop from sunset to sunrise |
| Code section | § 11-0112 (Ordinance No. 1221, adopted April 2024) |
West Fargo began allowing backyard chickens in April 2024 under Ordinance 1221. Up to 6 hens (no roosters) are permitted with a $25 annual permit from the West Fargo Police Department. Coops must be at least 10 feet from all property lines and 3 feet from adjacent structures.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in West Fargo?
Yes — chickens are allowed in West Fargo (§ 11-0112 (Ordinance No. 1221, adopted April 2024)).
How many chickens can I keep in West Fargo?
Up to 6 hens.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in West Fargo?
Yes — West Fargo requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens (fee: $25).
Are roosters allowed in West Fargo?
No — roosters are prohibited in West Fargo.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in West Fargo?
10 feet minimum. Coop max 7 ft height, min 4 sq ft per bird; run max 10 sq ft per bird; not in front yard; at least 3 ft from adjacent structures; 10 ft from all property lines; chickens confined to coop from sunset to sunrise
What law covers backyard chickens in West Fargo?
§ 11-0112 (Ordinance No. 1221, adopted April 2024). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
§ 11-0112 (Ordinance No. 1221, adopted April 2024) — read the official code
“West Fargo Commission Votes 3-2 To Allow Backyard Chickens” source
“no more than six (6) chickens; annual permit fee of $25; no roosters; coop at least 3 ft from adjacent structures and 10 ft from property lines; not in front yard; min 4 sq ft per bird, not over 7 ft height” source
Last verified June 15, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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