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Gaithersburg Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in Gaithersburg?Yes
How many chickens can you have?6
Can you have roosters in Gaithersburg?No
Chicken coop placement rules:Coops at least 200 feet from other people’s homes and 5 feet from property lines.
Application process:No permit required
More information:City of Gaithersburg code

If you want to know more about the rules and regulations that pertain to chicken farming in Gaithersburg, you need to be aware of the following rules and regulations: 

  • Gaithersburg, Maryland allows residents to keep up to six (6) chickens on their property unless the enclosure for the fowl is two hundred (200) feet from any inhabited dwelling other than the residence of the person keeping the fowl.
  • Roosters are not allowed in Gaithersburg. 
  • Chicken coop requirements:
    • The chicken coop must be at least 200 feet from any inhabited dwelling other than the residence of the person keeping the fowl.
    • It must also be at least five (5) feet from any adjoining property lines.
    • The chicken coop must be dry, and well-ventilated, with windows placed to admit sunlight.
    • Drinking containers in the chicken coop must be kept clean and supplied at all times with clean water.
  • Manure and droppings:
    • Remove manure and droppings from the chicken coop at least once each day.
    • Dispose of them in a manner that prevents unsanitary conditions and the cause of a nuisance, such as odour or unsightly matter.
  • To keep chickens in Gaithersburg, Maryland, you must first obtain a permit from the city.

Backyard chicken rules in cities may be modified over the years. That’s why it’s vital to reach out to Gaithersburg officials for the most current information.

See other Maryland chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/26/24