Raising Backyard Chickens in Redmond, WA
Essential Tips for Urban Poultry Farming
Raising backyard chickens has become an increasingly popular endeavor among residents in Redmond, WA. This practice offers families a way to connect with sustainable living practices by providing a source of fresh eggs, natural fertilizer, and the enjoyment of caring for the animals. Redmond's municipal code accommodates this trend with specific guidelines that ensure the health and safety of both the chickens and the community at large.
Residents of Redmond are allowed to keep chickens on their property, but it's important to be aware of the number permitted, which varies by zoning district. For instance, in residential zones such as R-6, individuals can have up to four chickens, while more spacious zoning categories like RA-5, R-1, and R-2 permit up to ten chickens. These regulations are in place to prevent overcrowding and to maintain the residential character of neighborhoods.
To ensure harmonious integration of chicken husbandry into city life, Redmond does not permit roosters and sets standards for coop construction and placement, requiring coops to be at least 30 feet from any property line. By staying informed of the city's zoning and husbandry requirements, Redmond citizens can enjoy the benefits of raising backyard chickens while being responsible members of the community.
Understanding Local Chicken Ordinances
Residents of Redmond, WA interested in raising backyard chickens should familiarize themselves with the city's specific ordinances. They must adhere to the following guidelines to ensure compliance with local laws:
Chickens Allowed: Homeowners may keep chickens on their property.
Number of Chickens: The maximum number of chickens allowed is based on the size of the lot. A maximum of 10 chickens are permitted on lots no smaller than half an acre.
Roosters: Roosters are not allowed, ensuring noise levels remain within acceptable limits.
Permit Required: No permit is currently required for chicken husbandry.
Coop Restrictions: Chicken coops must be placed no less than 30 feet from any property line.
The City of Redmond acknowledges various residential zones, such as R-3 through R-6, where these regulations may be applicable. Before setting up a coop, residents should confirm the zoning designation of their property and review any specific requirements.
For further information or clarification on chicken husbandry ordinances in Redmond, individuals may contact the Department of Planning and Community Development located at City Hall. To learn more or to access resources related to chicken husbandry, residents should visit the official Redmond website or reach out to Redmond Municipal Code - Title 7 Animals.
Essential contact details for guidance:
City Organization Contact Name: Department of Planning and Community Development
Address: 15670 NE 85th Street, Redmond, WA 98073-9710
It's crucial for residents to stay updated on the latest ordinances, which can be subject to changes by the city council. Information in this section was last updated on April 29, 2024, and future changes are always possible.
Choosing the Right Chicken Breeds
When selecting chicken breeds for a backyard flock in Redmond, WA, one should consider the primary purpose of raising them, whether it be for eggs, meat, or dual-purpose. Breed choice will affect the number of chickens permitted due to local regulations.
Egg Laying Breeds
For dedicated egg production, certain chicken breeds stand out:
Lohmann Brown: A hen prized for its reliable production, laying over 300 eggs annually.
Araucana: Known for their vibrant blue eggs and adaptability to different climates.
Breeds Importance Table
Breed Egg Color Eggs/Year Climate Adaptability Lohmann Brown Brown >300 Moderate Araucana Blue, Green Varied Tolerates Cold
Meat Breeds
For those raising chickens for meat, breeds are chosen for growth rate and carcass quality:
Broilers: A group of breeds selectively bred for quick growth and ample meat yield.
Meat Breeds
Broilers (Cornish Cross, Jersey Giant)
Dual-Purpose Breeds
Some breeds offer the best of both worlds, producing a decent number of eggs while also providing a substantial amount of meat:
Sussex: This breed provides substantial meat and lays a fair number of eggs, suitable for colder climates.
Cochin: A hen that is both a good meat provider and a consistent layer, known for its larger size.
Dual-Purpose Breeds Summary
Sussex: Cold-hardy with moderate egg laying.
Cochin: Large, fluffy appearance with strong meat and egg production capability.
One should remember that hens will produce eggs, while roosters are often kept for breeding and flock management purposes. Hen-only flocks can exist without a rooster. Juvenile birds, or pullets, will begin laying eggs at about 5-6 months of age. It's crucial to consider charm and behavior, especially for pleasure and family-friendly environments.
Designing and Building a Chicken Coop
Designing and building a chicken coop in Redmond, WA, requires careful consideration of space, protection, climate control, and comfort to ensure a healthy environment for backyard chickens. Local regulations in Redmond and surrounding areas like Woodinville, Bellevue, and Kirkland must also be taken into account.
Space Requirements
The size of the coop is dictated by the flock size. Chickens need at least 2-3 square feet per bird inside the coop and about 8-10 square feet in the outdoor run. Residents of Sammamish or Seattle with more space can plan larger coops, but it's essential to balance the footprint with available land.
Minimum interior space: 2-3 sq ft/chicken
Minimum outdoor run space: 8-10 sq ft/chicken
Protection and Safety
Safety is paramount when housing chickens in any area, be it Redmond or nearby communities. The coop must be sturdy, with solid walls constructed preferably of hardware cloth to prevent predators from entering. A lockable door and a raised coop floor add an extra layer of security.
Walls: Hardware cloth, stronger than chicken wire
Door: Lockable for nighttime safety
Elevation: Raise coop to prevent predator access
Ventilation and Insulation
Proper ventilation is crucial to remove moisture and ammonia and maintain good air quality, while insulation keeps chickens warm during the cooler, wet seasons common in Redmond and Bellevue. Strategically placed vents should allow air to circulate without causing drafts in the roosting area.
Ventilation: Ample vents, protected from rain
Insulation: Necessary for warmth, balanced with ventilation
Nesting Boxes and Perches
Nesting boxes provide chickens a safe space to lay eggs, usually one box for every 3 to 4 hens. They should be easily accessible for cleaning and egg collection. Perches are necessary for roosting and should accommodate all chickens, with about 8-12 inches of perch space per bird.
Nesting boxes: 1 per 3-4 hens, easily accessible
Perches: 8-12 inches' space per chicken, positioned away from vents
Raising Chicks to Healthy Hens and Roosters
Raising chicks involves careful attention to their diet, environment, and health to ensure they grow into productive hens and roosters. Below are key considerations and best practices for each aspect of their care.
Feeding and Nutrition
Chicks (0-8 weeks): They require a starter feed with 18-20% protein to support rapid growth. Growers (8-14 weeks): Transition to a starter/grower feed with 16-18% protein. Finishers (15-18 weeks): At this stage, a 16% protein finisher feed is suitable until they are ready to lay eggs.
Age Group Protein Type of Feed Notes 0-8 weeks 18-20% Starter crumbles Essential for initial growth 8-14 weeks 16-18% Starter/Grower Supports continued development 15-18 weeks 16% Finisher Prepares for egg laying
Water Access and Regulation
Chickens require consistent access to fresh water. Water should be:
Clean: Change it daily to prevent disease.
Not freezing: In winter, water may need to be warmed slightly to prevent freezing.
Maintaining a Clean Coop
A clean coop is critical for preventing disease and keeping chickens healthy. Perform regular cleaning by:
Removing waste: Clean out soiled litter and droppings.
Ventilation: Ensure the coop is well-ventilated to keep the air fresh.
Space: Provide enough room to prevent overcrowding.
Health Check and Common Illnesses
Regular health checks help identify issues early. Look out for symptoms such as:
Lethargy
Unusual droppings
Loss of appetite
Common ailments in chickens include respiratory infections and parasites. If illness is suspected, consult a veterinarian familiar with poultry.
Daily Management and Best Practices
When raising backyard chickens in Redmond, WA, daily management is vital for the health and well-being of the flock. A regular routine helps maintain order and ensures that chickens have access to fresh food and water. Key elements of a competitive daily care routine include:
Feeding: Provide a balanced diet with quality feed. Chickens also benefit from occasional treats like vegetables and fruits. Use feeders that reduce waste.
Water: Clean, fresh water must be available at all times. Waterers should prevent contamination and be positioned to avoid spillage.
Cleaning: Routinely clean the coop to reduce the risk of disease. Remove droppings and refresh the bedding regularly.
Safety: Ensure that the coop is secure from predators. Inspect for vulnerabilities daily.
Egg collection: Collect eggs each morning. This discourages broodiness and ensures eggs remain clean and undamaged.
Observation: Monitor the flock for signs of illness or distress. Understanding the pecking order can help identify shifts in dynamics that might require intervention.
Chickens require a spacious and clean brooder when young, transitioning to a coop that provides shelter and protection as they mature. Coops must adhere to local Redmond regulations—situated at least 30 feet from property lines and considering the allowance of up to 10 chickens per 1/2 acre without roosters. It is imperative for chicken owners to familiarize themselves with Redmond Municipal Code - Title 7 Animals, ensuring compliance with local standards.
Proper care and attention to these aspects of daily management enhance the quality of life for backyard chickens and optimize productivity.
Understanding Chicken Behavior and Social Structure
Chickens exhibit a range of behaviors that are pivotal for their survival and social interaction. A key aspect of their behavior is the hierarchical system known as the pecking order. This social structure dictates the rank and standing of each chicken in the flock.
Hens often establish their hierarchy through pecking and chasing.
Roosters typically occupy the top positions, serving as protectors of the flock.
It is crucial for chicken keepers to recognize pecking order displays as normal behavior, not aggression.
Another behavior commonly observed is broodiness, where hens display a natural instinct to hatch eggs. They may become more sedentary, often refusing to leave the nest and showing aggression when disturbed.
Understanding these behaviors allows for better flock management and can help mitigate conflicts. It's important to monitor the flock to ensure that no chicken is excessively bullied or injured.
Behavior Description Significance Pecking Order Hierarchical status among chickens Organizes social structure Broodiness Hens sit on eggs to hatch them Indicates reproductive state
Chickens also communicate through various vocalizations and body postures, enabling them to express warnings, contentment, and other states.
Observing and understanding these social dynamics is vital for the well-being and productivity of backyard chickens in Redmond, WA, and beyond. Owners must provide an environment that accommodates the instinctive needs of their flock for a harmonious backyard chicken experience.
Handling Eggs: From Collection to Consumption
When raising backyard chickens in Redmond, WA, proper egg handling ensures both freshness and safety. They should collect eggs frequently to reduce dirt and risk of contamination. Ideally, the collection should occur in the morning and possibly again in the afternoon, depending on the number of hens.
Once collected, the eggs need to be evaluated for cleanliness. Eggs with minimal debris can be gently wiped with a dry cloth. However, if eggs are visibly dirty, a more thorough cleaning is necessary. They should use warm water — warmer than the eggs themselves — to prevent the contraction of the egg's contents and the potential inward pull of bacteria.
Cleaning Steps:
Rinse the egg in warm water.
Clean the surface with a soft brush if needed.
Dry the eggs completely in ambient air.
Note: The use of detergents or scented products for cleaning is not recommended due to the porous nature of eggshells, which can absorb odors and chemicals affecting taste and safety.
Once clean and dry, they store the eggs in a cool, temperature-controlled environment. The refrigerator is an ideal location to prolong freshness. In terms of feed, a balanced diet for chickens impacts egg quality. Feeding chickens a mix from a reputable feed store, including green, leafy foods, leads to nutritious and tasty eggs.
Proper handling and storage of eggs from backyard chickens in Redmond can be an easy and rewarding process when one practices these careful steps to ensure their eggs remain fresh from the coop to the kitchen.
Interacting with the Community and Neighbors
When raising backyard chickens in Redmond, WA, building a positive relationship with neighbors is crucial. Homeowners should consider that while some neighbors may be supportive or even curious about the endeavor, others may have concerns. It’s key to address questions proactively and be amicable to mitigate any issues.
Communication is the first step. A resident can inform neighbors about their chicken-keeping plans and discuss how they intend to manage their flock. By being open about the process, neighbors often appreciate the transparency and may become advocates for the project. Shared efforts, like neighborhood chicken projects, can further community bonds and support.
Noise and cleanliness are common concerns. Explaining measures taken to keep the area clean and noise to a minimum can alleviate worries. For example, one can assure that coops will be cleaned regularly to prevent odors and that noise will be limited.
Here's a quick-reference table for Redmond chicken keepers to manage community interaction:
Action Explanation Inform Neighbors Share plans about raising chickens Open Dialogue Encourage neighbors to ask questions Community engagement Join or create a Facebook group or a chicken forum Knowledge sharing Offer tips on chicken care to interested neighbors Contact Details Provide an email for ongoing concerns or questions
On average, a well-informed community results in a smoother experience for everyone involved. Becoming a part of chicken forums or Facebook groups dedicated to poultry care in Redmond may provide essential tips for harmony between chicken keepers and their neighbors.
Additional Considerations for Backyard Chicken Keepers
In Redmond, WA, individuals looking to keep backyard chickens must consider a range of regulations and best practices to ensure they are operating within legal requirements and promoting the welfare of their chickens.
Local Ordinances: Before starting, one should meticulously research Redmond's specific ordinances regarding the keeping of backyard fowl. While typical livestock like cows and pigs are often not permitted in urban settings due to their size and requirements, smaller animals such as chickens, ducks, and rabbits are sometimes allowed with certain restrictions.
Livestock and Fowl: Chickens are generally allowed, but individuals should verify limits on the number of birds and whether certain types, like roosters, are allowed due to noise concerns.
Other Birds and Animals: In some areas, ducks and geese might be considered, but these species often have different needs and may fall under distinct ordinances.
Housing Considerations: Chickens require safe and clean living conditions, often necessitating a spacious coop and secure fencing to protect against predators. It's essential to provide structures that are both ventilated and insulated, adapting to Redmond's varying climate.
Space: Sufficient space for roaming and foraging.
Security: Protection against predators and escape.
Health and Maintenance: Owners should regularly maintain their chicken's living environment to prevent the spread of disease. They must also understand the nutritional needs of their birds, providing a balanced diet and clean water, and should be prepared to address any health issues that arise.
Nutrition: Appropriate feeds and waterers to minimize waste.
Hygiene: Regular cleaning schedules to maintain coop cleanliness.
By keeping informed and adhering to the guidelines, residents of Redmond can enjoy the numerous benefits of raising backyard chickens responsibly.
Resources and Further Reading
Residents of Redmond, WA, interested in raising backyard chickens are advised to familiarize themselves with local ordinances to ensure compliance with city laws. The Chicken Husbandry guidelines for Redmond stipulate limitations based on zoning areas, such as a maximum of four chickens in an R-6 zone, and up to ten chickens in RA-5, R-1, R-2, and Urban Recreation zones.
For those seeking detailed information, the City of Redmond provides resources including:
A comprehensive brochure: Chicken Husbandry Informational Brochure - Redmond, WA
The full text of Chickens Ordinance 2640, effective since December 17, 2011.
It is important for chicken owners to keep abreast of current standards, which can be found at the following link:
For personalized guidance, residents may email the Planner on Call at the City of Redmond. Furthermore, the BackYard Chickens forum offers community-driven discussions about raising chickens, prompts shared experiences, and updates on potential changes in legislation.
Washington State also recommends best practices for maintaining healthy poultry, emphasizing the significance of biosecurity measures. Should owners encounter sick or deceased birds, it is imperative to report these instances to the Washington State Department of Agriculture's (WSDA) Avian Health Program, and consulting a veterinarian is recommended.
For persistent updates and engaging with local chicken enthusiasts, referring to the City of Redmond website and connecting with related forums and email lists can serve as platforms for obtaining critical insights and fostering responsible chicken husbandry in the Washington State community.
