In addition, HOAs have the authority to enforce their rules and regulations, such as those pertaining to architectural guidelines, landscaping, and pet restrictions. Property owners' associations are responsible for maintaining and restoring common amenities such as parks, swimming pools, and clubhouses.
Since there isn't an official state law prohibiting HOAs from blocking property owners from farming chickens in their backyards, the onus is up to the association. What can and can't be regulated can be seen on the Texas State Law Library website.
House Bill 614 guarantees your right to a hearing before the HOA board to contest the violation or the proposed fine. This ensures a fair and transparent process where you can voice your concerns and advocate for your interests.
Fowl includes animals such as chickens, turkeys, geese and ducks. There is no state law regulating these types of animals. If you live within city limits, your city ordinances will determine whether or not you can have them on your property.
The minimum area for an Urban Farm is 2,500 square feet, allowing one (1) fowl allowed per square foot. Roosters are prohibited in Urban Farming. The Zoning Ordinance also requires minimum setbacks for chicken coops. They must be in the rear yard, at least 25 feet from any property line, and 100 feet from another home.
If you wish to own chickens on your property, you must first contact your county'​s planning and zoning office. Should the planning office confirm that the property is approved for farming of chickens/backyard flocks, you must then register your flock with the state​​.
In 2023, the backyard chicken bill passed through the state House of Representatives by a vote of 125 to 21, but it died in committee.
Any fowl lot maintained in the city limits must be large enough to provide a minimum of four square feet per chicken. The chicken house will be allowed to be a part of this area. Suitable wire shall be used as the fence material for chickens.
Residents living in a detached, single-family house may keep up to 8 chickens. No roosters are allowed. The yard must be 10,000 square feet or larger. The coop must be at least 15 feet from all lot lines and 50 feet from all neighbors' houses.
If you wish to own chickens on your property, you must first contact your county'​s planning and zoning office. Should the planning office confirm that the property is approved for farming of chickens/backyard flocks, you must then register your flock with the state​​.