Yes, backyard chickens are generally legal in Colombia, but compliance hinges on municipal ordinances and sanitary regulations. National law permits small-scale poultry farming, yet local governments impose zoning and health restrictions, particularly in urban areas.
Key Regulations for Keeping Backyard Chickens in Colombia
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Zoning Compliance: Municipalities like Bogotá and Medellín require permits under Plan de Ordenamiento Territorial (POT) to ensure chickens are kept in non-residential zones or with setback distances from dwellings. Unauthorized urban flocks may face fines under Decreto 1077 de 2015 (Urban Planning Code).
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Sanitary Protocols: The Instituto Colombiano Agropecuario (ICA) mandates registration for flocks exceeding 50 birds or commercial intent. Backyard owners must adhere to Resolución 2463 de 2016 (biosecurity norms), including coop disinfection and disease reporting.
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Noise and Nuisance Controls: Local ordinances (e.g., Acuerdo 791 de 2018 in Bogotá) prohibit roosters in residential zones due to noise violations. Chickens must be confined to prevent public disturbances under Ley 9 de 1979 (Public Health Code).
Violations risk confiscation under Decreto 1500 de 2007 (Food Safety Law), though enforcement varies by city. Always verify municipal updates, as 2026 revisions to POT may tighten urban poultry allowances.