Toledo Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in Toledo?Yes
How many chickens can you have?Up to 6
Can you have roosters in Toledo?No
Chicken coop placement rules:Coops at least 25 feet from any dwelling other than the owner’s, 5 feet from a side-yard lot line, and 18 inches away from a rear-yard lot line.
Application process:Permit required for anything outside of what ordinance prescribes
More information:Lucas County Health Dept.

For a comprehensive understanding of raising chickens in Toledo, start with the basic rules and regulations:

  • Number of Hens: Residents of Toledo are allowed to keep up to 6 hens per single-family dwelling.
  • Prohibited: Roosters are prohibited from being kept within city limits.
  • Distance from Dwellings: Coops or cages housing chickens must be kept at least 25 feet away from the door or window of any dwelling or occupied structure other than the owner’s dwelling.
  • Lot Line Requirements: Coops and cages must be located at least 5 feet away from a side-yard lot line and 18 inches away from a rear-yard lot line.
  • Front Yard Restrictions: Coops and cages are not permitted to be located in the front yard of a property.
  • Coop Requirements: Hens must be provided with a covered, predator-proof coop or cage that is well-ventilated and designed for easy cleaning.
  • Space per Hen: The coop must allow at least 1 square foot of space per hen.
  • Outdoor Enclosure: Hens must have access to an outdoor enclosure that is adequately fenced to contain the birds on the property.
  • Sanitary Conditions: The coop and outdoor enclosure must be kept in a sanitary condition and free from offensive odors.
  • Regular Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the coop and enclosure is required to prevent the accumulation of waste.
  • Restrictions on Chicken Roaming: No person, whether the owner or having charge of any chicken, is permitted to allow the chickens to run at large on any open lot, street, lane, alley, commons, or other public ground within the City of Toledo.

To stay informed about any modifications in backyard chicken regulations, it is recommended to contact Toledo officials for the latest information.

See other Ohio chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/24/24