Are Chickens Allowed in Virginia Beach?

BySusan Medlin

No — except in certain zones. In Virginia Beach, chickens (or “fowl”) are only permitted in areas zoned for agricultural use. In most residential and suburban districts, the zoning does not allow chickens. While there have been community discussions and petitions to change this, the rules remain restrictive for the majority of homeowners.

What the City Code and Zoning Say

  • Chickens are considered “fowl” and fall under the same category as livestock in the city’s regulations.
  • They are only permitted on properties zoned for agricultural use, which are mostly located south of the “Green Line.”
  • In residentially zoned areas — which include most of Virginia Beach’s urban and suburban neighborhoods — chickens are not allowed.

Community Feedback and Proposals to Change the Rules

There is strong public interest in allowing backyard hens, and residents have been pushing for changes. Proposals often include:

  • Allowing a limited number of hens (no roosters) on residential lots.
  • Setting a cap on the number of hens per household, often around four to six.
  • Creating a registration or permit process to ensure compliance with standards.
  • Requiring coops to meet setback, design, and sanitation requirements.
  • Prohibiting on-site slaughter and banning roosters to minimize nuisance complaints.

Arguments For and Against Legalizing Backyard Hens

  • Arguments in Favor:
    • Fresh, locally produced eggs for households.
    • Educational benefits for children and families.
    • Environmental benefits, such as composting manure and reducing food waste.
    • Support for sustainable living and local food systems.
  • Concerns and Arguments Against:
    • Noise issues, especially if roosters are present.
    • Odors and flies if coops are not maintained properly.
    • Rodents or predators attracted by feed and waste.
    • Difficulty for the city to enforce regulations and respond to complaints.
    • Potential impact on property values and neighborhood character.

What Residents Should Check Before Getting Chickens

  1. Confirm your zoning: Use the city’s zoning maps or contact Planning and Zoning to see if your property is classified as agricultural.
  2. Understand the Green Line: Areas south of the Green Line are more rural and often zoned agricultural; north of it, chickens are almost always prohibited.
  3. Review city ordinances: Make sure you understand specific rules for fowl in agricultural zones, including coop standards and setbacks.
  4. Check HOA or deed restrictions: Even if city zoning allows chickens, private covenants may prohibit them.
  5. Design your coop carefully: Ensure it is predator-proof, cleanable, and placed far enough from property lines and neighbors’ homes.
  6. Stay updated: Watch City Council meetings and Virtual Town Halls where the issue of backyard hens is sometimes discussed.

What to Expect Going Forward

  • In agricultural zones: Chickens may be allowed, provided you meet zoning requirements and coop standards.
  • In residential zones: Chickens are not currently permitted, and the city has not approved a pilot program to change this.
  • Future possibilities: Proposals to allow hens in limited residential areas could come forward, but changes would require amendments to zoning and animal control codes.

Conclusion

At this time, chickens are not allowed in most of Virginia Beach. Only properties zoned agricultural, generally located south of the Green Line, may keep chickens legally. Residents in residential areas cannot keep hens or roosters under current law. While community interest in changing these rules is growing, no official change has been approved. If you live in Virginia Beach and want to keep chickens, your best option is to confirm your zoning, follow all existing agricultural standards, and participate in city discussions to advocate for future reforms.