Elizabethtown Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in Elizabethtown?Yes
How many chickens can you have?No official limits
Can you have roosters in Elizabethtown?No
Chicken coop placement rules:No official rules
Application process:No permit required
More information:Elizabethtown Municipal Code

If you want to keep chickens in Elizabethtown, you’re generally free to do so.

To learn more about the rules surrounding raising chickens in your backyard in Elizabethtown, read on below.

  • Permit application not required. If you wish to keep backyard chickens in Elizabethtown, it’s not usually necessary to apply for a specific permit.
  • Certain types of poultry are allowed. The city generally permits hens but tends to prohibit roosters due to noise concerns. This is spelled out in the city’s nuisance ordinance.
  • No restrictions on the number of chickens. The city does not set a limit on the total number of chickens you can keep.
  • Chicken coop standards must be met. The city typically requires that chickens be housed in a structure that is secure, clean, and well-ventilated.
  • Coop placement. Chicken coops have to be located a reasonable distance from other properties and residences. This is usually meant to avoid potential disputes with neighbors, although the city does not make its coop placement guidelines clear in official documentation.
  • Cleaning and maintenance. Regular cleaning of the chicken coop and its surroundings is obligatory. This is to ensure the health of the chickens and to prevent potential public health risks.
  • Slaughtering. Slaughtering chickens in the city limits is often not allowed. The city generally disallows this activity to maintain a peaceful environment.
  • Additional regulations from Homeowners’ Association may apply. If your property is governed by a Homeowners’ Association, it’s possible that additional rules or restrictions may apply. Always check your HOA guidelines before acquiring chickens.

To ensure that you have the most up-to-date information on raising chickens in Elizabethtown, it’s best to reach out to your local government.

See other Kentucky chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/26/24