Fort Collins Quick Summary
Limit: Up to 6 hens · Roosters: Prohibited · Permit: Required ($30) · Setback: 15 ft from any property line · Code: Fort Collins Municipal Code § 4-111
Fort Collins Backyard Chicken Rules
Fort Collins Municipal Code § 4-111 permits up to 6 hens in residential zones with a one-time $30 permit from Fort Collins Animal Services. Fort Collins has a strong sustainability and urban agriculture culture — the ordinance was updated in 2012 and again in 2018 to reflect growing demand and to clarify enclosure standards.
Fort Collins is home to Colorado State University's veterinary and agricultural programs, which means the city has an unusually high concentration of residents with livestock knowledge and an active local urban agriculture community. The local extension office (CSU Extension — Larimer County) is a particularly strong resource for new chicken-keepers navigating both the permit process and practical husbandry.
Fort Collins vs. Larimer County
Fort Collins city limits and unincorporated Larimer County have different rules. If you're in Loveland, Windsor, or unincorporated areas east or west of Fort Collins, Larimer County's more permissive agricultural rules apply rather than Fort Collins' ordinance. Confirm via Larimer County's parcel search.Key Rules at a Glance
- Up to 6 hens in residential zones
- Roosters are prohibited in all residential zones
- A $30 one-time permit from Fort Collins Animal Services is required
- Enclosure must be at least 15 feet from any property line
- Coop must be in the rear yard
- Coop must be predator-proof and weatherproof
- Feed must be stored in rodent-proof containers
| Rule | Detail | Notes | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flock limit | 6 hens | Hens only | FCMC § 4-111 |
| Roosters | Prohibited | Noise nuisance basis | FCMC § 4-111 |
| Permit | $30 one-time | From Fort Collins Animal Services | FCMC § 4-111 |
| Setback | 15 ft from property line | All property lines | FCMC § 4-111 |
| Location | Rear yard only | Front yard prohibited | FCMC § 4-111 |
How Fort Collins Compares to Nearby Cities
| City | Limit | Permit | Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Collins | 6 hens | $30 permit | 15 ft from property line |
| Denver | 8 hens | $50 permit | 15 ft from structure |
| Boulder | 6 hens | No permit | 15 ft from property line |
| Colorado Springs | 6 hens | Permit required | 15 ft setback |
| Loveland | 6 hens | Permit required | 20 ft setback |
| Greeley | 4 hens | Permit required | 25 ft setback |
Frequently Asked Questions
Fort Collins Animal Services issues the permit. Their office is at 4609 S. Timberline Road. Applications are available on the Fort Collins city website under Animal Services → Chickens. Submit with the $30 fee by check or in person. Processing is typically 5–10 business days.
Yes — Fort Collins' 15-foot setback applies to all property lines (rear, side, and the front property line if you're somehow placing a coop near the street, though rear yard is required). On Fort Collins' typical 50–70 foot wide lots, satisfying a 15-foot setback from both side property lines means the coop must be in the center 20–40 feet of the lot width. Use the Setback Calculator for your specific dimensions.
Yes — CSU Extension Larimer County offers workshops, publications, and free phone consultations on backyard poultry. Their Master Gardener and 4-H programs also engage with urban chicken-keeping. Call (970) 498-6000 or visit larimer.extension.colostate.edu for current program offerings.
Related Guides
City GuideDenver Chicken RulesHow Fort Collins compares.State GuideColorado Livestock LawsAll major Colorado cities.ToolCoop Size CalculatorHow much space do 6 hens need?
Disclaimer: Ordinances change. Always verify current rules with Fort Collins's Planning or Zoning department before acquiring any animals.