Salem, OR Chicken Laws: Hens, Roosters, Permits and Coop Rules

Coop Ready Oregon Salem

Hens allowed

Yes. Salem allows backyard hens on a typical single-family home lot.

The poultry facility must meet zone setbacks and sit 3 ft from other buildings on the lot. Birds stay confined unless under the owner's control, and geese and turkeys are not allowed. Each chicken needs at least 3 sq ft of coop and 6 sq ft of run.

Hen limit

12 poultry total

Roosters

Banned

Permit

No

Coop placement

Rear yard, at least 25 ft from a home on an adjacent lot

Checked against city code We read the official code section linked below for every fact on this page.

Read the official Salem rules ↗ Checked October 2026.

Will your coop fit in Salem?

Draw your lot, your house and your neighbor's house on a satellite map, drop in a coop, and Coop Ready measures the distances and compares them with the Salem rules above. Free, no account.

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Backyard chicken questions in Salem

How many chickens can I have in Salem?

The hen limit in Salem: 12 poultry total.

Are roosters allowed in Salem?

No. Salem bans roosters on typical home lots.

Do I need a permit for backyard chickens in Salem?

No. Salem does not require a permit for a typical backyard flock.

How far does a chicken coop have to be from my neighbor in Salem?

Where the coop can go in Salem: rear yard, at least 25 ft from a home on an adjacent lot.

Can my HOA ban chickens if Salem allows them?

Yes. HOA rules, deed restrictions and leases can be stricter than city code. Read yours before you build.

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Coop Ready is a planning aid, not legal advice. City codes change, and zoning, HOA rules and your exact parcel can change what is allowed. Confirm with Salem before you build.