The City of Blue Springs allows backyard hens on single-family residential and qualifying agricultural properties under three acres within the city limits of Blue Springs, consistent with the adopted ordinance. Contact Planning staff for a copy of the ordinance and current application materials.

Backyard Hen Permits

The City of Blue Springs allows residents to keep backyard hens on qualifying residential and agricultural properties with an approved Residential Backyard Hen Permit. This program promotes sustainable living while ensuring compatibility with neighborhoods.

Properties located in neighborhoods with homeowners associations or neighborhood groups may have additional bylaws, restrictions or requirements. Please check with your association prior to construction or keeping of backyard hens.

General Rules & Requirements

  • Maximum of six hens per property
  • Roosters and other fowl (e.g. peacocks, guineas) are not allowed
  • Hens must be kept in secure, predator-proof enclosures located in the rear yard only
  • Enclosures must be at least 10 feet from property lines and 40 feet from neighboring homes
  • No commercial breeding or fertilizer production
  • Coop size 2-4 square feet per hen
  • Coop height: 2-8 feet (interior and exterior)
  • Cleanliness and odor control required
  • No noise, odor or pest nuisance may occur at property boundaries
  • Hens may be outside of the pen during daylight hours if in a securely fenced yard and under supervision
  • Permits are non-transferable and valid in perpetuity

Application Checklist

  • Completed application form
  • Acknowledgement of Ordinance Compliance
    • Signature confirming applicant will meet all requirements

Application Process

  1. Application Submission
    1. Applicants must submit a complete application to the City Development Department:
      • Completed Backyard Hens Application
      • Signed acknowledgement of ordinance compliance
      • Property owner consent (if applicable)
  2. Initial Review (within 5 business days)
    1. Planning Staff will check for application completeness and compliance with submittal checklist.
  3. Zoning & Property Eligibility
    1. Confirm property is zoned for single-family residential or is an agricultural property under 3 acres used for residential purposes.
    2. Verify lot size and proposed number of hens (maximum 6 hens, no roosters).
  4. Animal Control
    • Planning staff sends applications in compliance to Animal Control once approved
  5. Final Determination (within 10 business days)
    • If approved, staff issues a non-transferable approved application and notifies the applicant
    • If denied, staff provides a written explanation with guidance on how to resolve deficiencies if possible.

After Approval

  • The permit may be subject to inspection by Animal Control or Planning Staff at any time.
  • Violations may result in permit revocation or other enforcement actions.

Request current application materials or email completed applications to: developmentsubmittals@bluespringsmo.gov

Recordkeeping

All applications and supplemental materials will be retained digitally by the Planning Department and Animal Control.

Inspection & Enforcement

City staff or animal control may inspect properties as needed. Failure to comply with the permit or city ordinance may result in revocation or enforcement action.