HOUSTON - A KHOU viewer wanted to know - what are the rules on keeping chickens in your backyard in the city of Houston? Our Verify team went to work.
Yes, you can have chickens in the city of Houston - up to 30 of them!
The chickens must be housed in a confinement and the coop must be kept at least 100 feet away from any neighboring homes, churches or schools. The coop must also be kept clean.
Roosters, however, are not allowed. BARC says the city prohibits them because of noise and cockfighting.
BARC says if you have a problem with a neighbor who is not following the rules when it comes to chickens, you can report them by calling 311. Violators could get a Class C misdemeanor, which is a $500 fine.
VERIFY: Sources
Jarrad Mears, Division Manager for BARC
Houston City ordinances