| Are chickens allowed in New York City? | Yes |
| How many chickens can you have? | No limit |
| Can you have roosters in NYC? | No |
| Chicken coop placement rules: | None |
| Application process: | Permit required |
| More information: | NYC Health Code, Article 161.19 |
In New York City, the laws related to backyard chicken keeping are:
- Keeping chickens for commercial purposes is illegal.
- Keeping chickens for non-commercial purposes is allowed in residential areas, but with some restrictions.
- Chickens must be kept in a secure enclosure that is at least 2 square feet per bird.
- The enclosure must be at least 10 feet from any residential building.
- The enclosure must be properly ventilated, cleaned, and maintained to prevent odor and pest problems.
- Roosters are not allowed, except for properties designated as agricultural or educational.
- Slaughtering chickens is not allowed on residential properties.
- Chicken owners are responsible for the proper disposal of chicken waste.
Start Raising Chickens
See other New York State chicken ordinances.
Last updated: 4/27/24