Can I keep chickens in Surprise, AZ?
Yes — Surprise allows backyard chickens, up to 6 hens with no permit required. Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 20 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Chapter 6, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Yes |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Coop setback | 20 ft |
| Coop rules | Up to 6 hens on half-acre or less. No roosters. Enclosure max 200 sq ft, 8 ft height. 20-foot setback from neighbors. Sanitary conditions required. |
| Code section | Chapter 6 |
Surprise permits 6 hens per HB2325 state law minimum. No roosters. Standard backyard chicken enclosure rules apply (200 sq ft, 8 ft max, 20 ft setback). No permit required.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Surprise?
Yes — chickens are allowed in Surprise (Chapter 6).
How many chickens can I keep in Surprise?
Up to 6 hens.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Surprise?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Surprise.
Are roosters allowed in Surprise?
No — roosters are prohibited in Surprise.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Surprise?
20 feet minimum. Up to 6 hens on half-acre or less. No roosters. Enclosure max 200 sq ft, 8 ft height. 20-foot setback from neighbors. Sanitary conditions required.
What law covers backyard chickens in Surprise?
Chapter 6. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Chapter 6 — read the official code
“Up to 6 hens allowed per HB2325” source
Last verified June 13, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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