Centre Chicken Laws – Raising Birds Legally

Raising chickens in your backyard is a rewarding and sustainable way to enjoy fresh eggs, natural fertilizer, and a closer connection to your food. But if you live in Centre, Alabama, it’s essential to know the local chicken laws before you bring home any hens or start building a coop.

This guide will walk you through the most important details about Centre chicken laws, including zoning regulations, coop placement, flock size limits, and more—so you can raise chickens legally and responsibly.

---

Are Chickens Allowed in Centre, Alabama?

Yes, chickens are allowed in Centre—but only under certain conditions based on zoning, property size, and compliance with local ordinances.

Centre supports backyard chicken keeping in the right circumstances. However, like most municipalities, the city has clear rules to balance agricultural interests with residential peace and public health concerns.

---

Centre Chicken Laws: What You Need to Know

Centre has specific requirements for backyard chickens that are designed to minimize nuisances while still supporting urban agriculture.

General Requirements Include:

• Zoning: Chickens are typically permitted in agricultural and residential-agricultural zones. In standard residential areas, chickens may be allowed with restrictions or require a permit.

• Flock Limit: Most properties are limited to 4 to 6 hens. Larger flocks may be allowed on properties with agricultural zoning.

• Roosters: Roosters are prohibited in most residential zones due to noise concerns.

• Coop Placement: Chicken coops must be located in the backyard only and set back 25–50 feet from property lines and neighboring homes.

• Containment: Chickens must be kept in a secure coop or fenced run. Free-ranging beyond your property is not allowed.

• Sanitation: Coops must be clean, odor-free, and pest-resistant. Poor maintenance could lead to citations or forced removal.

Need help getting your setup right? Use Chicken Coop Calculator to plan a compliant and efficient backyard chicken space.

---

Zoning and Permits in Centre

Your property’s zoning classification determines whether you can legally raise chickens.

How to Check and Prepare:

1. Call Centre City Hall or the Planning & Zoning Department to verify your property’s zoning.

2. Ask if chickens are allowed under your zoning and whether you need a permit or variance.

3. Confirm setback requirements and restrictions on coop structures.

4. Check with your HOA, if applicable—private communities often have their own restrictions even if the city allows chickens.

Once you’re clear on zoning, use ChickenCoopCalculator.com to create a coop plan that matches legal spacing and structure rules.

---

Chicken Coop Requirements in Centre

Even if your property is zoned for chickens, your coop must follow specific construction and placement guidelines.

Coop Regulations:

• Location: Backyard placement only—not allowed in the front or side yard.

• Setbacks: Coops must be placed 25 to 50 feet from any neighboring residences or property boundaries.

• Size Requirements:

  • 4 sq ft per chicken inside the coop

  • 10 sq ft per chicken in the run

• Structural Requirements:

  • Predator-proof and fully enclosed

  • Weatherproof, ventilated, and well-drained

  • Easy to clean to prevent odor and pest issues

Use Chicken Coop Calculator to build a coop plan that’s legal, functional, and ideal for your flock’s health and safety.

---

Are Roosters Allowed in Centre?

No, roosters are not allowed in most residential zones of Centre.

Because of their early-morning crowing and potential to cause noise complaints, roosters are typically banned within the city. Agricultural zones may permit roosters with restrictions—always confirm with local authorities.

Hens will lay eggs without a rooster, so there’s no need to keep one unless you’re breeding, which is also limited by zoning.

---

How Many Chickens Can You Keep in Centre?

Most residential properties in Centre are limited to 4–6 hens.

In agricultural zones or on larger properties, residents may be permitted to keep more chickens, but this must be confirmed with zoning officials.

Flock Size Summary:

Chicken Coop Calculator will help you determine the best number of birds for your lot and build a coop that complies with Centre’s laws.

---

What Happens If You Break Chicken Laws in Centre?

Breaking the city’s poultry ordinances can lead to violations, fines, or the forced removal of your flock.

Common Violations:

• Housing roosters in a restricted zone

• Keeping more hens than allowed

• Improper coop placement (too close to neighbors)

• Poor coop sanitation

• Allowing chickens to roam outside your property

If You Receive a Notice:

• Correct the issue promptly—move your coop, clean the area, or reduce your flock.

• Work with local officials—they may offer a warning or timeline to fix the issue.

• Prevent repeat violations by designing your setup with Chicken Coop Calculator.

---

Responsible Chicken Keeping in Centre

Legal compliance is step one. Being a thoughtful, responsible poultry owner is what keeps your chickens safe—and your neighbors happy.

Best Practices:

• Clean your coop weekly to prevent odor and pests

• Use proper bedding like straw or pine shavings

• Store feed securely to avoid attracting rodents

• Choose quiet, gentle breeds like Buff Orpingtons or Barred Rocks

• Talk to your neighbors—a little communication and the occasional dozen eggs go a long way

You can organize all of these care tasks with help from ChickenCoopCalculator.com.

---

Why Chickens Are a Great Addition to Centre Homes

Chickens offer far more than just breakfast:

• Fresh, local eggs

• Compostable waste for gardens

• Reduced kitchen scraps

• Natural insect control

• Educational for kids and families

• A step toward sustainable living

And with proper planning, they’re easy to care for—even in town.

---

Conclusion

Raising backyard chickens in Centre, Alabama is legal and rewarding—as long as you follow the city’s rules. Know your zoning, place your coop correctly, keep it clean, and stay within flock limits to ensure you’re raising chickens the right way.

Ready to start your flock? Visit Chicken Coop Calculator to plan your coop, calculate your ideal number of hens, and make sure your setup meets all legal standards in Centre.

Raise your chickens smart, stay compliant, and enjoy fresh eggs in the heart of Centre, Alabama.