| Are chickens allowed in Roanoke? | Yes |
| How many chickens can you have? | 10 to 40 (depending on lot size) |
| Can you have roosters in Roanoke? | Yes (but check with officials first) |
| Chicken coop placement rules: | Coops at least 50 feet from any building used for residential purposes |
| Application process: | A permit may be required |
| More information: | Roanoke City Code |
Ever wondered about the ins and outs of raising chickens in Roanoke? Find the crucial rules and regulations here.
- The city of Roanoke allows residents to keep chickens.
- Maximum number of chickens. A maximum of 10 poultry animals may be kept on a parcel with less than 20,000 square feet. A maximum of 40 poultry animals may be kept on a parcel with 20,000 square feet or more.
- Roosters appear to be allowed. Roanoke’s city code doesn’t seem to mention a limitation on roosters, but check with officials and your neighbors before raising a rooster.
- Fencing. All poultry must be kept in securely and suitably fenced areas, and no fenced area or pen for poultry shall be permitted closer than 50 feet to any house or other building used for residential purposes by anyone other than the person maintaining such poultry or his immediate family.
- Roaming. No poultry shall be permitted to roam at large.
Roanoke might alter its backyard chicken regulations, so always be sure to contact officials directly to get the most current and directly applicable information.
Start Raising Chickens
See other Virginia chicken ordinances.
Last updated: 4/24/24