Can I keep chickens in Lakewood, WA?
Yes, with conditions — Lakewood allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations. Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 20 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (LMC 18A.40.030(B)(3), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 1 per 2,723 sq ft |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Coop setback | 20 ft |
| Coop rules | Minimum setback 10 ft from all property lines for hutches; 20 ft for all pens, coops, aviaries, similar enclosures, and free-range areas. Density cap: 16 poultry/birds/rabbits per acre. |
| Code section | LMC 18A.40.030(B)(3) |
Lakewood permits poultry for domestic, noncommercial use as accessory to a dwelling, capped at 16 poultry/birds/rabbits per acre, with 20 ft setbacks; roosters, peacocks, turkeys prohibited in all zoning districts. Agricultural keeping permitted only in R1-R4, MR1, ARC zones, so multifamily/commercial applicability restricted.
Reach people actively researching backyard chickens in their city. Sponsor placements opening soon.
Get the media kit →Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Lakewood?
Yes, with conditions — Lakewood allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (LMC 18A.40.030(B)(3)).
How many chickens can I keep in Lakewood?
It depends on your lot. 1 hen per 2,723 sq ft of lot area. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Lakewood?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Lakewood.
Are roosters allowed in Lakewood?
No — roosters are prohibited in Lakewood.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Lakewood?
20 feet minimum. Minimum setback 10 ft from all property lines for hutches; 20 ft for all pens, coops, aviaries, similar enclosures, and free-range areas. Density cap: 16 poultry/birds/rabbits per acre.
What law covers backyard chickens in Lakewood?
LMC 18A.40.030(B)(3). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
LMC 18A.40.030(B)(3) — read the official code
“No more than sixteen (16) poultry, birds or rabbits and similar mammals shall be permitted per acre.” source
“Peacocks, roosters, turkeys, ostriches, emus, other similar birds ... shall be prohibited in all zoning districts in the City.” source
Last verified June 11, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code.
Reach people actively researching backyard chickens in their city. Sponsor placements opening soon.
Get the media kit →