Pittsburgh Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in Pittsburgh?Yes
How many chickens can you have?5 or more (depending on the lot size)
Can you have roosters in Pittsburgh?No
Chicken coop placement rules:No rule specified
Application process:Permit may be required
More information:Pittsburgh City Codes

If the idea of nurturing chickens in Pittsburgh ignites your curiosity, it’s imperative to delve into the intricacies of the necessary protocols and prerequisites.

  • Lot Size: To keep chickens in Pittsburgh, you must have a minimum lot size of 2,000 square feet. With this size, you are allowed to keep up to 5 chickens.
  • Additional Chickens: You are allowed one additional chicken for every additional 1,000 square feet of lot size beyond the minimum requirement.
  • Rooster Restrictions: Roosters cannot be kept within city limits. Only hens are permitted.
  • Chicken Coop Size: The chicken coop must be at least 6 square feet. Additionally, there must be a minimum of 2 square feet of coop space for each additional chicken you have.
  • Coop Requirements: The coop must meet several specifications. It should be covered, well-ventilated, dry, and predator-resistant. Additionally, it must be properly maintained to prevent the accumulation of animal excrement.
  • Outdoor Roaming Areas: Outdoor areas for roaming chickens must be sufficiently enclosed and screened from the street and neighboring properties. Chickens are not allowed to run freely on public property, unenclosed lands, or the premises of others.

Contact local officials to ensure you’re up-to-date on Pittsburgh’s ever-evolving backyard chicken regulations.

See other Pennsylvania chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/24/24