New York City Chicken Laws

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.

See other New York State chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/27/24