2020 was the year of backyard chickens, where it seemed like everyone in the neighborhood decided to set up a coop and backyard flock (our family included!). Buried deep in the City of Walla Walla municipal code, you’ll find Title 20 - Zoning. Under Division IV, Section 130, you’ll find the pertinent information: “No more than 10 domestic fowl are permitted per lot, provided the animals are housed in a coop or other shelter which is further enclosed by a fence. Domestic fowl must be properly housed at all times. Roosters are not permitted.“ So there you have it - you must have a fenced area, keep your birds housed, and you can have up to ten but no roosters. No additional licenses needed.

College Place has more exhaustive regulations, found under Chapter 6, Section 42. No roosters, and a maximum of 6 chickens. Additionally, there are requirements for the coop size, run, and proximity to the property line and buildings. There’s even a requirement to clean your coop weekly! You’ll also need to pay for a yearly city license for your birds. If you are considering keeping chickens in College Place, be sure to read the municipal code for yourself and understand the requirements: https://library.municode.com/wa/college_place/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=TIT6AN_CH6.42DOCHRABE_6.42.010KEDOCHRA

Have fun, fellow chicken farmers!