Portland allows up to 3 hens with an annual $31 permit — one of the few major cities that requires yearly renewal. Here's the process, what the permit covers, and Portland's unique annual registry model.
Portland Quick Summary
Maximum hens: 3 · Roosters: Not permitted · Permit: Annual renewal ($31/year) · Location: Rear yard only · Code: Portland City Code § 13.05.015
Portland's Annual Permit Model
Portland is notable among major U.S. cities for requiring annual renewal of its domestic fowl permit rather than a one-time approval. The $31/year fee is relatively modest, but the renewal requirement means Portland maintains an active registry of permitted chicken-keepers — and you need to re-confirm compliance each year.
The permit is issued by Portland Bureau of Development Services. Applications are available at 1900 SW 4th Ave or on the Portland.gov website. Each renewal requires you to confirm: current number of hens (max 3), that no roosters are on-site, and that the coop remains in the rear yard. No site inspection is required for renewal.
Portland's Specific Rules
Maximum 3 hens per residential lot
Roosters are prohibited city-wide in residential zones
Coop must be in the rear yard only
No specified setback distance in feet, but coop must comply with standard accessory structure rules
Feed must be stored in vermin-proof containers
Annual permit renewal required; operating with an expired permit is a violation
Portland and Ducks
Portland's domestic fowl permit covers chickens and ducks under the same allowance — 3 domestic fowl combined, any combination of hens and female ducks. The same rear-yard and permit requirements apply. Male ducks (drakes) are treated more leniently than roosters on noise grounds but are technically covered by the "no roosters or equivalent noise-producing males" spirit of the ordinance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Operating with an expired permit is a code violation. Portland Bureau of Development Services sends renewal notices to permit holders, but non-receipt doesn't excuse lapsed compliance. Set a calendar reminder for your renewal date. Retroactive renewal is generally permitted if you're still in compliance — contact BDS to renew even after the expiration date rather than letting it lapse indefinitely.
No — Portland's limit is 3 domestic fowl regardless of lot size within city limits. This is among the more restrictive limits of any major West Coast city. If you want more birds, you'd need to look at properties in unincorporated Multnomah County or adjacent municipalities with higher limits. Washington County (Beaverton, Hillsboro) has separate, sometimes more permissive rules.
Yes — Portland has a separate beekeeping ordinance permitting up to 2 hives on standard residential lots with a flyway fence requirement if within 25 feet of a property line. Oregon State University Extension Service's Master Beekeeper Program operates in the Portland metro area and is a strong local resource for new beekeepers navigating both city and state requirements.
Disclaimer: General informational guidance only. Ordinances vary and change frequently. Always verify with your local planning department before acquiring animals.