Following a resolution passed unanimously by the Pueblo West Metro District Board of Directors on March 13, Pueblo West residents may raise as many as 20 chickens on their property, an increase of the previous limit of 12. Residents should note that only those living in an "agricultural zone" may raise chickens, provided they follow several guidelines.
Recent spikes in egg prices, due to a nationwide bird flu outbreak as well as a new Colorado law regarding the treatment of egg-laying hens, have resulted in residents asking if they can raise their own hens on their property.
"Since Jan. 1, residents have asked whether they can raise chickens on their property," said Pueblo West Metropolitan District Neighborhood Services Coordinator Marcos Reyes. "This resolution creates clarity and consistency regarding the conduct of poultry husbandry in Pueblo West."
What guidelines must be met to raise chickens?
Guidelines to raise your own chickens are addressed the Pueblo West Declaration of Reservations, a document created at Pueblo West's founding that governs covenant enforcement in the Metro District.
To raise chickens, you must:
- Live in an agricultural zone
- In general, most of northside Pueblo West and properties on the boundaries of the Metro District are zoned as agricultural and are eligible to keep chickens. See the latest Pueblo West zoning map to see what zone your property lies. If it's classified as A-1, A-2, A-3 or A-4, you may keep chickens on your property.
- Not have a rooster, regardless of zone
- Roosters are considered nuisance animals
- Have 20 chickens or less
- Have them in a fenced in area or a chicken coop.
- If building a chicken coop, you must apply for the proper applications with the Pueblo West Community Development office. It is advisable to contact the Pueblo West Metro District Community Development office at (719) 547-2000 if you plan on raising your own chicken(s).
- While fencing may be adequate your situation, you may need to secure proper application to build a structure to house chickens. Learn more about accessory structure applications inside the Metro District.
- The application process has been streamlined. You may apply for accessory applications through our paperless permitting and payment portal.
More questions?
Again, it's advised you contact the Pueblo West Community Development office at (719) 547-2000 or visit the Community Development Office at 356 S. McCulloch Blvd. to answer any questions regarding animals on your property.
