| Are chickens allowed in Washington, DC? | Yes |
| How many chickens can you have? | 6 |
| Can you have roosters in Washington, DC? | No |
| Chicken coop placement rules: | Coops in backyard and at least 50 feet from other buildings and 5 feet from rear or side property lines |
| Application process: | No permit required |
| More information: | District of Columbia Municipal Regulations for Animal Control |
In Washington, D.C., keeping backyard chickens is allowed under certain conditions, as specified by the District’s regulations:
- Number of chickens. You are allowed to keep up to six chickens on your property.
- Roosters: Roosters are prohibited due to noise concerns.
- Coop size and location. Chicken coops must be located in the rear yard of the property, and they must be at least 50 feet away from any residential building, school, or church. Coops must also be at least 5 feet away from any side or rear lot lines.
- Sanitation and maintenance. Proper sanitation and maintenance of chicken coops are essential to prevent health hazards and nuisances, such as odors or pests. Coops must be kept clean, dry, and well-ventilated.
- Health and safety regulations. You are required to comply with health and safety regulations, including those related to the sale of eggs. Eggs produced by backyard chickens in Washington, D.C., can only be sold if they meet the requirements set forth by the D.C. Department of Health.
- Permits and licensing. There are no specific permits or licenses required for keeping backyard chickens in Washington, D.C. However, you should check with the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) for any building permits needed for constructing a chicken coop.
Always consult the most recent regulations and contact the relevant authorities in Washington, D.C., to ensure you are in compliance with the current laws related to keeping backyard chickens.
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Last updated: 4/26/24