Access a detailed version of our comprehensive standards in the documents below or reference this quick, at-a-glance overview of the key standards being met at each certification level to understand which level could be achievable for your farm or ranch.
No outdoor access required
Minimum space requirements
Some enrichments required (e.g. straw bales)
6 hours of darkness required daily for proper rest
Chickens must have bright barns (min 50 lux)
6-hr maximum transport time
No outdoor access required
Minimum space requirements
Additional enrichments required (at least 2 types)
6 hours of darkness required daily for proper rest
Natural light required in barns (e.g. windows)
6-hr maximum transport time
Seasonal outdoor access required by 4 weeks of age
Minimum space requirements
Additional enrichments required (at least 2 types)
Outdoor shade & enrichments required
Natural light required
6-hr maximum transport time
Daily access to pasture from 4 weeks of age
Pasture maintained with a minimum 50% vegetative cover
Specialty breeds for outdoor production
Outdoor shade & enrichments required
—
6-hr maximum transport time
Continuous outdoor living on pasture by 4 weeks of age
Pasture maintained with a minimum 75% vegetative cover
Specialty breeds for outdoor production
Outdoor shade & enrichments required
—
6-hr maximum transport time
Continuous outdoor living on pasture by 4 weeks of age
Pasture maintained with a minimum 75% cover
Specialty breeds for outdoor production
Outdoor shade & enrichments required
—
No transport time; entire life on farm
All levels of certification: No antibiotics ever | No added growth hormones* | No animal by-products | Every farm 3rd party audited every 15 months
*Federal regulations prohibit the use of hormones in raising poultry.
Standards in green indicate a new or changed requirement from the previous certification level.
Update on Avian Influenza Policy PDF Document
As cases of Avian Influenza (High Pathogenicity) are increasing, G.A.P. has issued a second update to our policy allowing Step 3-5+ birds to be housed indoors, under specific circumstances, for a maximum of 16 weeks, in an effort to minimize risk of transmission. Policy dated April 19, 2022 replaces policy dated February 2, 2022. Click here for more information.
Standards
Application
Producer Resources
G.A.P. Chicken Partners
