| Are chickens allowed in Baltimore? | Yes |
| How many chickens can you have? | Up to 8 based on lot size |
| Can you have roosters in Baltimore? | No |
| Chicken coop placement rules: | Coop must be fully fenced, in rear yard, no higher than 8 feet, 25 feet from any neighbor’s residence and at least 10 feet from property line. |
| Application process: | Permit required |
| More information: | Baltimore County Government |
You can still get a slice of country life in the big city if you live in Baltimore. Here’s a summary of the laws related to backyard chicken keeping in Baltimore, Maryland:
- Baltimore, Maryland allows residents to keep chickens on their property, but there are certain restrictions and regulations that must be followed.
- Chicken coops and runs must be located at least 25 feet away from neighboring homes.
- The maximum number of chickens allowed per property varies based on the size of the property, with a maximum of 4 chickens allowed on properties smaller than 7,000 square feet, and up to 8 chickens on larger properties.
- Chicken owners must obtain a permit from the city’s Department of Health before keeping chickens on their property.
- Chicken coops and runs must be predator-proof and must provide at least 2 square feet of space per chicken.
- 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 Baltimore who want to keep chickens to obtain the necessary permits and comply with these regulations to avoid legal issues.
Start Raising Chickens
See other Maryland chicken ordinances.
Last updated: 4/27/24