Can I keep chickens in Fargo, ND?
Yes — Fargo allows backyard chickens, up to 6 hens with a required permit/registration. Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 25 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (§§ 12-0306 to 12-0315, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Yes |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes ($10) |
| Coop setback | 25 ft |
| Coop rules | Coop must be predator-proof, well-ventilated, minimum 4 sq ft per bird inside, run minimum 10 sq ft per bird, max 6 ft height; not in front yard; at least 3 ft from adjacent structures; chickens 25 ft from any adjacent dwelling |
| Code section | §§ 12-0306 to 12-0315 |
Fargo has allowed backyard chickens since May 2017 under Article 12-03 of the Municipal Code. Up to 6 hens (no roosters) are permitted with an annual $10 permit from the City Auditor. Coops must be at least 25 feet from any adjacent dwelling and meet specific size and height requirements.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Fargo?
Yes — chickens are allowed in Fargo (§§ 12-0306 to 12-0315).
How many chickens can I keep in Fargo?
Up to 6 hens.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Fargo?
Yes — Fargo requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens (fee: $10).
Are roosters allowed in Fargo?
No — roosters are prohibited in Fargo.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Fargo?
25 feet minimum. Coop must be predator-proof, well-ventilated, minimum 4 sq ft per bird inside, run minimum 10 sq ft per bird, max 6 ft height; not in front yard; at least 3 ft from adjacent structures; chickens 25 ft from any adjacent dwelling
What law covers backyard chickens in Fargo?
§§ 12-0306 to 12-0315. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
§§ 12-0306 to 12-0315 — read the official code
“Up to 6 chickens may be kept. No roosters are permitted. An annual $10 permit is required. Coops must be placed at least 25 feet from adjacent dwellings.” source
“CHAPTER 12 | ARTICLE 12-03 — DOMESTIC FOWL, WILD BIRDS, AND PETS, §§ 12-0306 to 12-0315” 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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