Backyard chickens in Kirkland, Washington

Yes, backyard chickens are legal in Kirkland, but only on properties in the city's designated low density residential zones (e.g., RS, RSX, RSA, and similar single-family zones) — fowl are prohibited in multifamily zones. Under Kirkland Zoning Code (KZC) 115.20(3)(a), every eligible lot under 35,000 square feet may keep three (3) fowl regardless of lot size, plus one additional chicken for every 1,000 square feet of lot area above 5,000 square feet, up to a citywide cap of 20 chickens. Lots of 35,000 square feet or larger may keep 20 birds plus one more per additional 500 square feet. No permit or land-use review is required to keep fowl under these limits (KZC 115.20(3)(a)(2)). Roosters are prohibited citywide except for roosters kept in RSA-zoned lots that already had roosters prior to August 15, 2012 (KZC 115.20(3)(a)(3)(a)(iii)).

Kirkland enjoys mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers typical of the Puget Sound lowlands. Rainfall is heaviest from October through April, so coop ventilation, dry bedding, and covered runs are important to prevent mud and moisture-related illness. Summers are generally mild (rarely above 85°F), so heat stress is less of a concern than in other regions, though occasional summer heat waves still call for shade and fresh water.

Kirkland's mix of wooded greenbelts, parks, and residential neighborhoods supports healthy populations of raccoons, opossums, and weasels, all of which are skilled at exploiting weak coop latches or small gaps. Red-tailed hawks and other raptors are common overhead, especially near open yards, making covered runs valuable. Coyotes have become increasingly common in Eastside suburbs including Kirkland, particularly around dusk and dawn, so fully secured, roofed enclosures are recommended for overnight housing.