Backyard Chicken Laws in Washington
Summary of state-level and major-city rules for keeping hens, roosters, and small backyard flocks in Washington. Updated 2026.
What makes Washington different
Seattle allows one additional bird per 1,000 sq ft over 6,000.
Official sources
Verify locally before you buy birds
This is a summary. City, county, and HOA rules usually override state guidance. Check your local zoning office, health department, and any HOA covenants before adding hens or roosters to your property.
Other states
Washington, wet side and dry side
Washington is split by the Cascades. West of the mountains, Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia and Bellingham are mild and wet. East of the mountains, Spokane, Yakima and the Tri-Cities are dry, with hot summers and cold winters. Your coop plan depends on which side you live on.
How the rules work
Cities and counties set chicken rules. Many Washington cities allow hens with limits on numbers and restrict roosters. Some require a permit or setbacks from property lines. County zoning covers unincorporated land, and rural zones usually allow poultry. HOAs in the Puget Sound suburbs often have their own rules. Our page on chicken laws in Tacoma gives a city example.
Coops for the wet side
Rain, mud and damp air are the main issues in western Washington. Mold and respiratory problems are more common in wet coops.
- Roof the whole run.
- Raise the coop off the ground.
- Use deep, dry bedding and change wet spots often.
- Vent high, even in winter.
See our coop ideas for Seattle backyards for designs that handle the rain.
Coops for the dry side
Eastern Washington needs a coop that handles summer heat and winter cold. Add shade and lots of water for summer, and block wind at the roost in winter. Use a heated waterer for freezing months. Wildfire smoke can be heavy in late summer, so keep birds calm and give them clean water.
The Barnevelder is a good fit for much of the state. It is calm, handles cold and damp well and lays dark brown eggs.
Predators
Raccoons are the top threat in western cities. Coyotes, foxes, opossums, skunks, hawks, owls and bald eagles are common. Rats are drawn to feed. In rural and forested areas, add bobcats, cougars and black bears. Use hardware cloth and lock up at night.
Bird flu and WSDA
The Washington State Department of Agriculture, or WSDA, handles animal health, including bird flu, through the state veterinarian. Washington has had bird flu cases in backyard flocks. Report sudden deaths. Puget Sound and eastern wetlands host many wild ducks and geese, so keep them away from your flock. Buy from NPIP hatcheries.
Selling eggs in Washington
You can often sell a few dozen from a small flock, but Washington may require a license for some sellers. Check with WSDA first.
Washington checklist
- Check city or county code and HOA rules.
- West side, plan for rain. East side, plan for heat and cold.
- Store feed so rats cannot get in.
- Save WSDA's contact info.
Common questions about chickens in Washington
Can I keep chickens in Seattle?
Seattle has allowed backyard hens with limits and no roosters. The city's current code has the details.
How do I keep my coop dry in western Washington?
Roof the run, raise the coop, vent high and use deep, dry bedding.
Who do I report sick chickens to in Washington?
WSDA handles animal disease reports. A vet who treats birds can also help.
