New Orleans Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in New Orleans?Yes
How many chickens can you have?Up to 10 based on lot size
Can you have roosters in New Orleans?Yes (at least 25 feet from other homes)
Chicken coop placement rules:Coop only in the rear yard and at least 10 feet from all lot lines and any home
Application process:Permit required
More information:New Orleans Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance

From the French Quarter to the city’s outskirts, you can keep chickens in New Orleans. But you need to keep the rules in mind. 

Here’s a summary of the laws related to backyard chicken keeping in New Orleans, Louisiana:

  • New Orleans, Louisiana allows residents to keep chickens on their property, but there are certain restrictions and regulations that must be followed.
  • Roosters are allowed, but must be kept at least 25 feet away from neighboring homes.
  • Chicken coops and runs must be predator-proof and must provide at least 4 square feet of space per chicken.
  • Chicken owners must obtain a permit from the city’s Department of Safety and Permits before keeping chickens on their property.
  • The maximum number of chickens allowed per property varies based on the size of the property, with a maximum of 10 chickens allowed on properties larger than 5,000 square feet.
  • Chicken owners must keep their chickens in a clean and sanitary environment and must provide them with adequate food, water, and shelter.
  • Chicken owners are prohibited from slaughtering chickens on their property.
  • Chicken owners are not allowed to sell eggs or meat produced by their chickens.
  • Violations of these regulations can result in fines and/or the revocation of the chicken-keeping permit.

It’s important for residents of New Orleans who want to keep chickens to obtain the necessary permits and comply with these regulations to avoid legal issues.

See other Louisiana chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/27/24