Can I keep chickens in Kirkland, WA?
Yes, with conditions — Kirkland allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 3 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited. (KZC 115.20, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 3 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Coop rules | Suitable structure/pen required, kept clean; mobile chicken tractors may go anywhere in fenced yard; structures over 100 sq ft must be 40 ft from each property line. |
| Code section | KZC 115.20 |
Kirkland allows fowl only in low-density residential zones (prohibited in multifamily zones) - zone-conditional. In permitted zones: 3 fowl regardless of lot size, +1 chicken per 1,000 sq ft above 5,000 sq ft, max 20 on lots under 35,000 sq ft. No permit. Roosters prohibited except legacy RSA-zone birds predating Aug 15, 2012.
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Get the media kit →Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Kirkland?
Yes, with conditions — Kirkland allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (KZC 115.20).
How many chickens can I keep in Kirkland?
Up to 3 hens. 3 hens, +1 per 1,000 sq ft above 5,000, max 20. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Kirkland?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Kirkland.
Are roosters allowed in Kirkland?
No — roosters are prohibited in Kirkland.
What law covers backyard chickens in Kirkland?
KZC 115.20. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
KZC 115.20 — read the official code
“Fowl. 1) Permitted Locations - Low density zones. 2) Required Review Process - None.” source
“Three (3) fowl, regardless of lot size ... One (1) additional chicken for each 1,000 square feet of lot area above 5,000 square feet, up to a maximum of 20 chickens.” source
“Chickens and Fowl are prohibited in Multifamily Zones” source
Last verified June 11, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code.
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