Glen Burnie Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in Glen Burnie?Yes
How many chickens can you have?4 to unlimited (depending on lot size)
Can you have roosters in Glen Burnie?No
Chicken coop placement rules:Coops at least 25 feet from property lines and 5 feet from your dwelling.
Application process:Permit required
More information:Anne Arundel County Code

Considering raising chickens in Glen Burnie? Take the necessary steps to learn about the rules and regulations that govern them. 

  • Glen Burnie allows residents to keep several chickens depending on their property size.
  • Residents must obtain a permit from the Glen Burnie Animal Control Department. The permit fee is $30 per year.
  • Roosters are not allowed.
  • The chickens must be kept in a coop that is at least 3 square feet per chicken. The coop must have a solid floor and a roof that provides protection from the elements. 

Lot size and number of chickens

  • Lot size of 20,000 square feet or greater: Up to 1 bird unit per 20,000 square feet.
  • A bird unit is defined as 8 chickens – hens only = 1 bird unit.
  • Lot size of less than 20,000 square feet: The number of chickens allowed is as follows: 4 chickens on a lot of 10,000 square feet; 6 chickens on a lot of 15,000 square feet.

Fencing and coop requirements

  • All livestock and fowl must be kept within a fenced area.
  • Chickens on lots less than 40,000 square feet must be kept in a secured enclosure with a chicken coop.
  • Coops and enclosures for chickens on lots less than 40,000 square feet must be located at least 25 feet from the side or rear lot lines and five feet from an onsite dwelling.

With the passage of time, cities may alter their regulations regarding backyard chickens. It’s important to reach out to officials in Glen Burnie to get the most up-to-date information.

See other Maryland chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/26/24