Are Chickens Allowed in Prince George’s County, Maryland?

BySusan Medlin

It depends. In Prince George’s County (PG County), chickens (and other poultry) are not universally allowed everywhere. Whether you can keep chickens depends on the zoning of your property, lot size, and whether you obtain a special permit. Below is a breakdown of what is allowed, what restrictions apply, and what you should check if you’re planning to keep chickens there.

What the Law and Zoning Say

  • Under the PG County Zoning Ordinance, “animals not customarily household pets” (including chickens/poultry) are restricted on most residential lots unless the property is designated for agricultural use.
  • Certain zones are more permissive: zones like R-O-S, R-A (Rural Agricultural), R-E (Residential Estate), and R-R (Residential Rural) allow agricultural use, which may include keeping chickens/poultry, depending on lot size and whether a special permit is obtained.
  • For example, if your lot is zoned R-R (Residential Rural), the property must often be larger than 20,000 square feet to qualify automatically. Smaller lots in these zones usually require obtaining a Special Use Permit through the County Planning Board.
  • Roosters (male chickens) are not permitted in residential areas, even if hen-keeping is allowed.

Key Restrictions & Requirements

  • Lot Size: Many zones have minimum lot size requirements for poultry to be allowed. Smaller lots typically do not qualify unless you obtain a permit.
  • Zoning Designation: Only certain zones allow chickens; most denser residential zones do not, unless exceptions are granted.
  • Special Permit: If your lot is in one of the suitable zones but is below the minimum size, you may need to apply for a Special Use Permit. For example, in areas zoned R-80, R-55, or R-R, lots under 20,000 sq. ft. generally require this permit.
  • No Roosters: Hens are permitted, but roosters are prohibited in all residential zones.
  • Other Restrictions: Coops must meet setback requirements from property lines or neighbors, be kept sanitary, and prevent noise or odor issues. Chickens must remain enclosed and not allowed to roam freely.

What to Do If You Want Chickens on Your Property

  1. Check your zoning classification. Find out if your property is zoned R-O-S, R-A, R-E, R-R, or a denser residential category. The PG County zoning map or Planning Department can help.
  2. Measure your lot size. If your property is above 20,000 sq. ft. in certain zones, chickens may be allowed by right. Smaller lots typically require a special permit.
  3. If your property doesn’t qualify outright, apply for a Special Use Permit. This process may involve presenting coop and enclosure plans, notifying neighbors, and a review by the Planning Board.
  4. Follow the rules: hens only, no roosters; coops must be designed to avoid nuisances; meet setbacks from neighboring homes; and comply with health and sanitation standards.
  5. Contact both County Zoning/Planning and Animal Control to confirm the exact requirements for your property. Rules can vary depending on your lot, zone, and neighborhood.

Summary

So, are chickens allowed in Prince George’s County, MD? Yes — but only under certain conditions. Most small residential lots do not automatically allow poultry. If your property is in a suitable zone (R-R, R-E, R-A, R-O-S), meets the size requirements, and you comply with permits, setbacks, and sanitation rules, then you can keep hens. Roosters are not allowed anywhere in residential zones.

If you know your zoning and lot size, you can determine your eligibility. If you’re unsure, contacting PG County Planning or Animal Control is the best way to confirm your exact situation before getting chickens.