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Champaign Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in Champaign?Yes
How many chickens can you have?6
Can you have roosters in Champaign?No
Chicken coop placement rules:Coops 10 feet from lot lines and 30 feet from other dwellings.
Application process:Permit required
More information:City of Champaign

With the right permit, you can keep up to a half dozen hens in your Champaign backyard.

This guide offers all the information you need to get started with backyard chicken keeping in Champaign.

  • Allowable number of chickens. In Champaign, Illinois, residents are permitted to keep up to six (6) chickens in their backyard.
  • Restrictions on roosters. To minimize noise disturbances, roosters are not allowed within city limits.
  • Requirement for a permit. Residents must obtain a permit to keep backyard chickens, which involves submitting an application and paying any relevant fees.
  • Coop and run specifications. Chicken coops must be well-ventilated, predator-resistant, and designed for easy cleaning. Each chicken should have a minimum of 4 square feet of space in the coop and at least 8 square feet of space in the run.
  • Coop placement and setbacks. Coops must be positioned at least 30 feet away from any neighboring residential dwelling and a minimum of 10 feet away from property lines.
  • Maintenance and cleanliness. It is essential to maintain clean and sanitary conditions in chicken coops and runs, with regular cleaning and appropriate waste disposal required.
  • Slaughter limitations. The slaughtering of chickens is not permitted on residential properties within the city limits.
  • Homeowners’ Association (HOA) rules. Residents should check with their HOA to ensure that backyard chickens are allowed under their specific community guidelines. In some instances, HOA regulations may supersede city rules.

The appropriate local authorities are the most reliable source of information on keeping backyard chickens in Champaign.

See other Illinois chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/26/24