| Are chickens allowed in Winston-Salem? | Yes |
| How many chickens can you have? | Up to 5 |
| Can you have roosters in Winston-Salem? | No |
| Chicken coop placement rules: | Coops at least 20 feet from any adjacent property line. |
| Application process: | A permit may be required |
| More information: | Winston-Salem City Code |
Interested in chicken keeping in Winston-Salem? Here’s everything you need to know before getting started.
- Number of Chickens: Residents can keep up to 5 hens in their backyards.
- Rooster Restrictions: Roosters are not permitted in residential areas.
- Enclosed Run: Chickens must be kept within an enclosed run at least 4 feet high. The run must provide 10 square feet of area per chicken.
- Coop Requirements: The coop must be located within the enclosed run and offer at least 3 square feet of floor area per chicken. Additionally, the coop must have a minimum height of 2 feet per floor or level where the chickens are housed.
- Location Restrictions: The enclosed run and coop should be situated in the rear yard, ensuring they are not closer to the street than the rear yard of the dwelling or principal structure.
- Distance from Property Line: To maintain a good neighborly relationship, the enclosed run must be positioned at least 20 feet away from any adjacent property line.
- Manure and Uneaten Feed: Residents who keep chickens are responsible for providing a bin or pit for storing manure and uneaten feed. This container must be watertight and designed to prevent the attraction of flies.
Changes to rules governing backyard chickens in cities can occur. For the most up-to-date information, contact Winston-Salem officials directly.
Start Raising Chickens
See other North Carolina chicken ordinances.
Last updated: 4/25/24