The passage of "The Chicken Ordinance" in the last city council meeting of 2007 allowed for limited and reasonable chicken owning within city limits. It is important that all past, current, and future chicken owners understand and follow the new rules as set forth by this ordinance. To see the whole ordinance, click here; Missoula Chicken Ordinance

Here are the basics written in plain english (these numbers directly correspond to those on the formal ordinance.) You are responsible for making sure you fully understand the ordinance- this summation is NOT official and should only be used as a starting point!

1. Chickens can be kept on city lots with a single owner, and if there are multiple families living on that lot then consent from all the residents is needed.
2. You'll need an annual permit from the City Treasurer in City Hall, which costs $15.
3. Your coop needs to be sturdy, ventilated, and decently sized to maintain your flock's well-being.
4. Your henhouse needs to be 20 feet from all your neighbor's house(s). It can, however, be less than 20 feet from your house if you so choose.
5. To protect from predators, the chickens need to be shut into the chicken house at night.
6. Your chickens need access to the outdoors in a safe enclosure.
7. Stored feed must be kept in a rodent- and predator-proof container (this is especially important in neighborhoods with bear visitors!).
8. You must keep the chicken's area clean, tidy, and quiet. If you create a nuisance, and your neighbors complain, Animal Control will pay you a visit.
9. Complaints that are found to be legitimate by Animal Control will need to be remedied within 10 days. Otherwise, you'll be subject to fines ($5-$500 depending on many factors) and/or the removal of your hens.

With all this information, you are now ready to think about your chickens. Do you really need six, or will three hens be just fine? Are you ready for the responsibility of owning a bunch of feathered friends? Hopefully this website will help you think through your decisions!