| Are chickens allowed in Rochester? | Yes |
| How many chickens can you have? | No limit |
| Can you have roosters in Rochester? | No |
| Chicken coop placement rules: | No rule specified |
| Application process: | Permit required |
| More information: | Rochester City Code |
Embark on your chicken-raising journey in Rochester by familiarizing yourself with the essential rules and regulations.
- License Requirement: Residents must obtain a license from the Chief of Police to keep chickens.
- Number of Chickens: A maximum of 30 fowl can be kept in an open area of 240 square feet.
- Roosters: Male fowl over four months of age cannot be kept alive within the City of Rochester after receiving notice from the Chief of Police identifying them as a nuisance.
- Cleanliness: It is mandatory to maintain cleanliness and sanitation in all coops, runways, and premises where fowl are kept.
- Distance from Dwellings: Coops and runways must be situated at least 25 feet away from any dwelling or building used for continuous daily human occupation.
- Sale of Chickens: The raising of fowl for the purpose of selling them is prohibited within the City of Rochester.
- Running at Large: Fowl must not be allowed to run freely on any street or public place, causing injury or annoyance to the public.
Get the most recent information on backyard chicken regulations in Rochester by contacting city officials directly.
Start Raising Chickens
See other New York chicken ordinances.
Last updated: 4/25/24