Yes, backyard chickens are legal in Nebraska, but compliance with local ordinances is mandatory. State law defers to municipalities, with Lincoln and Omaha imposing specific flock size and coop distance rules. Recent 2026 updates to the Nebraska Poultry and Egg Board’s guidelines emphasize biosecurity protocols for urban flocks.
Key Regulations for Keeping Backyard Chickens in Nebraska
- Flock Size Limits: Omaha caps backyard flocks at 6 hens (no roosters), while Lincoln permits up to 12 hens per single-family lot. Violations trigger citations under municipal nuisance ordinances.
- Coop Placement Restrictions: Omaha mandates coops be set back 20 feet from property lines, whereas Lincoln requires 15 feet. Structures must also comply with setback rules from neighboring residences.
- Biosecurity and Health Compliance: The 2026 Nebraska Poultry and Egg Board mandates annual flock inspections for urban coops, with mandatory reporting of any avian influenza symptoms. Failure to adhere risks quarantine orders.
Local zoning boards, such as the Douglas County Planning Department, enforce additional permits for commercial egg sales. Residents must verify their county’s specific ordinances, as rural areas often impose fewer restrictions. Non-compliance may result in fines or forced flock culls under the Nebraska Poultry Disease Control Act.