.png)
Raising Coturnix Quail in the City: An Urban Homestead Guide
Updated: Aug 19
Limited Space? Us too!
Limited space doesn’t mean you have to give up on producing some of your own food. We raise Coturnix quail on roughly one-tenth of an acre in Provo, Utah—and our backyard sits on a mountainside. For urban homesteaders who cannot keep a large flock of chickens, Coturnix quail can provide fresh eggs in a much smaller footprint.
In this guide, we’ll look at why Coturnix quail work well in cities, how they compare with chickens, what regulations to check, and what you need before starting your first flock.
Can't have chickens?
Even when backyard chickens are permitted, flock limits, coop requirements, setbacks, noise ordinances, and nuisance rules may still apply. A complaint can also prompt the city to inspect whether the property meets its requirements.
Why Coturnix Quail Work Well for Urban Homesteads
Here's where coturnix quail come into play! Coturnix quail require considerably less space than chickens, but there is no single stocking number that works for every enclosure. Space requirements depend on the birds’ age, housing style, ventilation, weather protection, cleanliness, and flock dynamics. For us, because we are production based, we lean towards 2-3 birds per sq foot but aviary requirements are different as well so keep that in mind. What I tell all my people is there is no wrong way to raise quail if the birds are happy and healthy and your setup is what works for you and your family.
Can You Legally Keep Coturnix Quail in a City?
Are you thinking you need permits to own coturnix quail just like you would other gamebirds? Watch this short Tik Tok video on why that's not an issue in most places because of the way city codes are written. *Regulations vary significantly, so check your city, county, HOA, and lease requirements before purchasing birds.
Here's a few other things people worry about...and you can find answers to these are more on our YouTube channel.
Comments