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Before You Buy Your First Hen — Free Checklist

Seven steps covering everything to confirm before a single chicken arrives. Print it, work through it, then buy your hens.

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Before You Buy Your First Hen

HenRules.pages.dev — Free Checklist 2025

Step 1 — Confirm your city allows backyard chickens

Search your city name + "backyard chicken ordinance" or use the HenRules Ordinance Finder. Confirm the hen limit, setback requirements, and whether a permit is required. Some cities in standard residential zones prohibit chickens entirely — verify before assuming permission.

henrules.pages.dev/tools/ordinance-finder.html

Step 2 — Check your HOA CC&Rs for chicken bans

Get the recorded CC&Rs from your county recorder or HOA management. Search for "chicken," "poultry," "fowl," "livestock." In most states HOAs can ban chickens even if your city permits them. Florida HB 1203 (2024) is the primary state-level exception. Know your state's rules.

henrules.pages.dev/guides/hoa-rights.html

Step 3 — Confirm your lot's zoning classification

Chicken ordinances often restrict by zone (R-1, R-2, AG, etc.). Find your parcel's zoning code on the city's GIS map or by calling the planning department. Agricultural zones almost always allow chickens; dense residential zones may not.

Step 4 — Measure coop setbacks before building

Measure from proposed coop location to: (a) nearest property line, (b) nearest neighbor's house. Typical: 5–25 ft from property line; 20–50 ft from neighbor's home. Draw your lot to scale first. Building the coop before measuring is the most common and most expensive mistake.

henrules.pages.dev/guides/coop-setbacks.html

Step 5 — Apply for your permit before getting hens

If your city requires a permit (many do), apply first. You'll typically need: application form, site plan sketch, hen count, fee ($0–$100). Some cities require neighbor notification before issuing the permit. Do not acquire chickens until the permit is in hand.

henrules.pages.dev/guides/permit-guide.html

Step 6 — Talk to adjacent neighbors first

A brief conversation with fence-sharing neighbors prevents most complaints. Describe your plan, your coop setup, and your commitment to cleanliness. A neighbor who knows you is less likely to call animal control than one who is surprised by sudden chicken sounds.

Step 7 — Verify hen limit; confirm hens only, no roosters

Never exceed your city's hen limit — it's the first thing an officer checks. Roosters are banned in virtually every U.S. city. If buying from a hatchery, order "sexed pullets" and confirm sexing accuracy. A rooster that crows at 4 AM is the fastest path to a permit violation.

HenRules.pages.dev — For informational purposes only. Always verify with your city before acquiring chickens. Not legal advice.

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Recommended Resource

Storey's Guide to Raising Chickens, 4th Edition

The #1 bestseller in Agriculture on Amazon. Covers breed selection, coop setup, feeding, health care, egg production, and more. The most trusted complete reference for new and experienced backyard flock owners — by Gail Damerow.

View on Amazon → 4.8★ • 1,850+ reviews • #1 Bestseller in Agriculture

As an Amazon Associate, HenRules earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect our editorial content.

🔍Ordinance FinderLook up your city's hen limits and permit rules.Open tool → 📝Permit GuideStep-by-step permit application walkthrough.Read guide → 📜HOA RightsCan your HOA ban chickens? Depends on your state.Read guide →

Informational Only. Ordinances change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your city's planning or animal services department before acquiring chickens.