Hopkinsville Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in Hopkinsville?Yes (in non-residential zones)
How many chickens can you have?No official limits
Can you have roosters in Hopkinsville?No
Chicken coop placement rules:Coops at least 100 feet from any residential district.
Application process:Permit required
More information:Hopkinsville Municipal Code

You’re facing an uphill battle if you want to raise chickens in Hopkinsville.

Continue reading to find out more about the rules for raising chickens in your backyard in Hopkinsville.

  • Chicken permit acquisition. A permit is usually required for Hopkinsville residents who wish to raise backyard chickens. According to the city code, you can’t keep chickens in an enclosure within 100 feet of any residential district, and you can’t let them run free-range anywhere.
  • Type of poultry allowed. The city may allow hens within its limits (in non-residential zones), but roosters are generally not permitted because of noise concerns.
  • Maximum number of chickens. There’s no specific a limit on the number of chickens that can be kept, which might be linked to the property’s size.
  • Chicken housing requirements. Chickens must be provided with a secure, well-ventilated, and clean structure for living.
  • Regulations on coop placement. The coop is generally required to be a certain distance away from neighboring properties and homes, but this will depend heavily on zoning and the type of permit you acquire.
  • Sanitation requirements. Regular cleaning of the chicken coop and its surroundings is necessary to ensure the health of the chickens and prevent potential public health hazards.
  • Slaughter restrictions. Slaughtering of chickens within city limits is usually prohibited.
  • Compliance with Homeowners’ Association rules. If the property is within a Homeowners’ Association, there may be additional rules or restrictions. Checking the HOA guidelines before getting chickens is advised.

The best source of up-to-date information on raising chickens in Hopkinsville is your local government. Contact them to learn more.

See other Kentucky chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/26/24