Backyard Chicken Permit
As of March 13, 2023, an ordinance was approved by the Board of Aldermen that allows residents of Odessa to keep backyard chickens on their property as long as all rules and regulations outlined in the ordinance are followed. 

General Requirements 

  • Maximum of 6 chickens per parcel of land 
  • Only female (non-crowing) chickens - Roosters are prohibited
  • Non-Commercial Use Only 
  • Slaughtering of chickens shall follow state law and be done in a humane and sanitary manner, out of the view of the public
  • Dead chickens must be disposed of according to the Missouri Department of Agriculture Law & Regulations for Animals

Permit Process 

  • A permit must be obtained from the City of Odessa. Applications are available HERE or at Odessa City Hall
  • The permit fee is $15 per property
  • Permits are issued for a 1 year period from January 1 to December 31
  • Failure to renew a permit shall result in a $15 fee in addition to the permit fee itself
  • Applicants will be provided a numbered leg band for each chicken applied for
  • All chickens must be banded at all times 

Enclosures 

  • Coops, chicken tractors, and runs must be in rear yards only
  • Chickens must be kept in the enclosure or fenced area at all times
  • During daylight hours, chickens may be allowed outside of the enclosure in a securely fenced area, if under supervision
  • Chickens shall be secured within an enclosure during non-daylight hours
  • Enclosures must provide adequate conditions and must protect the chickens from all predators 
  • Enclosures must be located at least 10 feet from property lines and at least 40 feet from any adjacent neighbor's home
  • Permanent electric construction will require a building permit, which can be obtained from the Community Development Department 
  • Enclosure size 
    • Minimum of 2 square feet per chicken 
    • Maximum of 4 square feet per chicken 
    • Exterior height shall not exceed 8 feet 
    • Must have sturdy wire fencing and covered with wire, aviary netting, or solid roofing

Storage of Food, Feed, and Manure 

  • All food and feed shall be stored in vermin-free, water-tight, vermin-proof receptacles, compartments, or rooms unless stored in a vermin-proof building
  • All stored manure shall be covered by a fully enclosed structure with a roof or lid
  • No more than 3 cubic feet of manure shall be stored 
  • All other manure not used for composting or fertilizing shall be removed
  • The enclosure and surrounding areas must be kept free from trash and accumulated droppings
  • Uneaten feed shall be removed in a timely manner

Chicken-At-Large 

  • Chickens shall not be allowed to run at large
  • No dog, cat, or other domesticated animal which kills a chicken running at large will be considered a dangerous or prohibited animal

Odors and Noise Impacts 

  • Odors and noise shall not be perceptible at the property boundaries 

Predators, Rodents, Insects, and Parasites

  • The owner shall take necessary action to reduce the attraction of predators and rodents and the potential infestation of insects and parasites
  • Chickens found to be infested must be removed 

VIOLATIONS 

Any person found guilty of violating the provisions of this ordinance shall be punished as provided in City Code. Violations could result in tickets, fines and/or a court appearance.