| Are chickens allowed in Knoxville? | Yes |
| How many chickens can you have? | Up to 6 |
| Can you have roosters in Knoxville? | No |
| Chicken coop placement rules: | Coops not allowed in front yards |
| Application process: | A permit is required |
| More information: | Knoxville City Code |
Unravel the crucial guidelines for keeping chickens in Knoxville and get ready to enjoy the rewards of poultry farming.
- Maximum Number of Hens: Residents in Knoxville are allowed to keep a maximum of 6 hens on their property. This limit applies to all lots, regardless of the number of dwelling units present.
- Multifamily Residential Complexes: In the case of multifamily residential complexes where individually owned backyards are absent, the maximum number of chickens allowed is 6 per complex.
- Roosters Not Allowed: It’s important to note that roosters are not permitted within city limits.
- Fenced Enclosure: Hens must always be kept within a fenced enclosure. The enclosure must either be covered or have a minimum height of 42 inches.
- Wing-Clipping Requirement: If the enclosure is not covered, hens must be wing-clipped to prevent them from flying over the fence.
- Henhouse Requirements: Chicken keepers must provide hens with a covered and predator-resistant henhouse in addition to the fenced enclosure. Coops must not be in front yards.
- Annual Permit: Residents are required to obtain an annual permit to keep chickens on their property.
- Permit Fee: The fee for the chicken-keeping permit is $25.00.
- Permit Issuance: Permits can be obtained from the Knoxville Animal Control Department.
Don’t miss out on Knoxville’s latest backyard chicken rules; contact officials for updated information.
Start Raising Chickens
See other Tennessee chicken ordinances.
Last updated: 4/24/24