Raising Backyard Chickens in Coralville

In November 2020, the City Council passed Ordinance 2020-1012 allowing residents to keep up to six chickens (no roosters) in Coralville. The City implemented a permitting process and began accepting permit applications in spring 2021.

Do Not Keep Chickens Without A Permit

Residents should not keep chickens before obtaining a permit. Residents may only keep chickens after their permit has been approved. Those who obtain chickens before permit approval will be issued a municipal citation.

Permit Required

A permit is required raise or keep chickens within Coralville. To make sure that prospective chicken owners are prepared:

• There are rules and regulations to obtain a permit.
• There are requirements about where and how you can keep chickens in Coralville.
• You must take a class about raising urban chickens. 
• A property inspection is a required part of the permit process.

How to Apply

1. Read and understand the Urban Chicken Ordinance (PDF). 
2. Successfully complete the required training class about raising urban chickens. You must show proof of completion when you apply for a permit. There are two options to take this class:
   • Indian Creek Nature Center, 5300 Otis Road SE, Cedar Rapids, IA; 319.362.0664. Indian Creek Nature Center Urban Chickens class
   • Iowa State University Extension and Outreach: ISU Extension Backyard Chickens eCourse
3. Apply to get a permit and pay the permit fee, in addition to a one-time fee for leg bands. There are rules and regulations to get a permit. Complete the Urban Chicken Permit Application (PDF)