Excelsior Springs residents can apply for a permit to raise chickens if your lot is 0.20 acres or larger. You may have 3 to 12 chickens, depending on your lot size. (For agricultural zoned property regardless of size, Section 210.130 applies, and not this Section.)
A permit costs $50 for the first year and $50 for each renewal. A non-refundable fee of $50 must be submitted with application. Tenants and renters of property may keep chickens with the written permission of the property owner. Proof of such permission shall be submitted with the application.
Restrictions
- Chickens must be kept in the backyard and are not allowed in the front or side yard.
- Coops must be placed within a specific distance from property lines and homes.
- A fence must surround the well-ventilated chicken coop and must be approved by Animal Control. Chickens must be kept in the coop when the resident is not present.
- Hens are allowed. Roosters are not allowed on a property less than three acres.
Find a complete list of chicken requirements, including location, safety and permitting standards, under the approved Section 210.125.
Best Practices
Ensure the safe-keeping of residential chickens by following these best practices provided by Animal Control.
- Wash or sanitize hands after handling chickens, eggs, feed and water, and after cleaning the coop.
- Collect eggs two to three times a day and wash them in luke-warm water. Store eggs in the refrigerator and discard any that are broken or cracked.
- Keep chicken feed in a dry area that is off the ground and airtight.
- Provide chickens with fresh water daily and ensure they have a safe portion of the coop to nest in each night.
- Place a roof or chicken wire over the coop and bury hardware around the perimeter to ensure predators cannot get inside.