Do the have zoning laws that state weather a person can have chicken on their property?

Filed under: Poultry |

backyard chickens
Image by Will Merydith

Question by Samantha: Do the have zoning laws that state weather a person can have chicken on their property?
If a person lives in a commercial or residential zone can they have chickens and do they have to have them in a coop? How do I find out?
I’m in Michigan, and it not me that has the chickens it my neighbor. The chickens keep coming onto my property, and I am not sure if their is anything I can do about it. I do not want my dogs seeing the chickens and then chasing them and possibly getting shot by the neighbor. My property is classified as residential but I do not know what their property is.

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5 Responses to Do the have zoning laws that state weather a person can have chicken on their property?

  1. That would likely be based on city and/or state law. You’d have to look up the local farming and agricultural department to find out.

    Charles Veidt
    April 23, 2013 at 3:13 pm
    Reply

  2. Contact the Local Zoning Board and ask them. You could probably find a number for them in your phone book. It really is a local issue, and having you ask will make it a lot easier to get them to agree to let you if there is any permit required or anything. If they were to show up and you have a chicken but need a livestock permit for it they aren’t going to be as cooperative with you.

    sgoldperson
    April 23, 2013 at 3:21 pm
    Reply

  3. Zoning laws vary by state, county, and locality. You should start by checking your county or city’s zoning bylaws, which should be available online at your local government’s web site. Look for rules concerning poultry or livestock in residential neighborhoods.

    Adam B
    April 23, 2013 at 4:17 pm
    Reply

  4. However, many areas have zoning regulations regarding livestock (and chickens are considered livestock).

    Some jurisdictions ban them outright in residential areas. Others have limits that allow for “backyard poultry” up to some amount… say… like 6 total… and only hens. It varies greatly from area to area.

    I can’t say for sure what the regulations are in your area because you didn’t tell me where you are.

    However, here’s a website that might help you:
    http://home.centurytel.net/thecitychicken/chickenlaws.html

    M. L.
    April 23, 2013 at 4:59 pm
    Reply

  5. contact your zoning board alright its a little wierd to have a chicken in your yard right?

    Aaron K
    April 23, 2013 at 5:54 pm
    Reply

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