Clarksville Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in Clarksville?Yes (in certain residential zones)
How many chickens can you have?Up to 8
Can you have roosters in Clarksville?No
Chicken coop placement rules:10 feet from any side property line
Application process:Permit required
More information:Clarksville City Code

Embark confidently on a poultry farming journey in Clarksville by understanding the pivotal rules and regulations governing chicken raising.

  • Number of Chickens: Residents can keep up to 8 domesticated hens (female chickens) on their property of at least 9,000 square feet in the following zones: E-1, R-1, R-1A, R-2, and R-2A.
  • Roosters: Roosters are prohibited within city limits.
  • Breeding and Slaughtering: Breeding or slaughtering chickens on the premises is prohibited.
  • Fenced Chicken Enclosure: All chickens must be kept in a fenced chicken enclosure, commonly known as a chicken run, which must be located in the rear of the property.
  • Covered Coop Structure: The chicken enclosure must include a covered coop structure, also known as a henhouse, to provide shelter for the chickens.
  • Space Requirements:
    • The chicken coop must provide a minimum of 2 square feet of space per chicken.
    • The total coop size must not exceed 50 square feet.
    • The chicken enclosure must provide at least 6 square feet of space per bird.
    • The entire enclosure must not exceed 400 square feet in total size.
    • The maximum height allowed for the chicken coop is 10 feet.
  • Distance from Property Line: The chicken enclosure and coop must be at least 10 feet from any side property line.
  • Minimum Lot Area: The lot area required for keeping domesticated hens must be a minimum of 9,000 square feet.

Stay up-to-date with Clarksville’s backyard chicken rules by directly communicating with officials. 

See other Tennessee chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/24/24