Idaho Senate introduces bill to allow backyard chickens despite HOA restrictions

Idaho homeowners may soon have greater freedom to raise backyard chickens, thanks to Senate Bill 1026, which was discussed during the Senate Agricultural Affairs Meeting on February 4, 2025. The bill aims to uphold property rights while addressing the growing demand for backyard poultry amid soaring egg prices, which currently range from $5 to $9 per dozen in many areas.

Senator Nichols, who introduced the bill, highlighted the historical significance of backyard chickens, noting their resurgence during World War I and II as a means of food security. With the current rise in egg production costs and a decrease in hen populations, many Idahoans are seeking ways to reduce grocery bills by raising their own chickens.

The proposed legislation would prevent homeowners' associations (HOAs) from outright banning chickens, allowing residents to keep up to four chickens per 0.2 acres. While HOAs can still impose reasonable regulations regarding coop placement and waste management, the bill does not alter existing city or county ordinances.

Supporters of the bill, including residents who testified during the meeting, expressed frustration with current HOA restrictions. They emphasized the benefits of backyard chickens, such as pest control, fertilizer production, and the potential for improved mental health. Testimonies highlighted the challenges of changing HOA bylaws, with one resident noting that legislative action might provide a more straightforward path to chicken ownership than navigating HOA governance.

The bill also includes provisions for small-scale livestock, defining ownership for personal use rather than commercial farming. This aligns with a broader trend of urban and suburban residents seeking self-sufficiency through sustainable practices.

As the committee prepares to vote on SB 1026, the implications of this legislation could significantly impact Idaho families, offering them new opportunities for food production and personal responsibility in the face of rising food costs. If passed, the bill could pave the way for a renewed interest in backyard farming and enhance food security for many households across the state.