Chicken Laws by County in Vermont

Vermont is a dream come true for backyard chicken enthusiasts. With its rural charm, farm-to-table culture, and strong sense of sustainability, it’s no wonder more Vermonters are raising hens right in their backyards. But before you bring home your first flock, there’s one essential step: know your local chicken laws.

This guide breaks down chicken ordinances by county across Vermont so you can legally and confidently start your poultry-raising journey.

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Are Chickens Allowed in Vermont?

Yes—chickens are legal in most parts of Vermont, including suburban and rural areas. But here’s the catch: laws differ from town to town, and sometimes even within counties. What’s allowed in a rural village may be restricted in a dense neighborhood or under a local HOA.

Here’s what typically affects your ability to raise chickens in Vermont:

• Municipal zoning laws

• Lot size requirements

• Rules on coop location and sanitation

• Limits on number of hens

• Restrictions on roosters

• Nuisance laws (noise, odor, animal control complaints)

Let’s break down chicken laws by county, covering major towns and cities within each.

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Chittenden County (Burlington, South Burlington, Essex)

Can you keep chickens in Chittenden County?
Yes—but city zoning rules apply.

Burlington:

• Chickens are allowed in residential zones.

• No formal limit on hens, but noise and cleanliness laws apply.

• Roosters are not permitted.

• Coops must be kept clean, in rear yards, and not pose a nuisance to neighbors.

• No permit required, but animal control can intervene if complaints are filed.

South Burlington:

• Up to 6 hens allowed per household.

• Roosters prohibited.

• Coops must be set back at least 15 feet from property lines.

Essex:

• Backyard chickens are permitted in single-family zones.

• Up to 6 hens, no roosters.

• No selling of eggs or chickens from residential properties.

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Washington County (Montpelier, Barre)

What about chickens in Vermont’s capital region?
They’re welcome—with limits.

Montpelier:

• Chickens are allowed in most residential zones.

• Limit of 6 hens, and no roosters.

• Coop must be in the backyard, properly maintained, and rodent-proof.

• A small one-time registration may be required.

Barre:

• Similar rules: up to 6 hens, no roosters, and coops must be enclosed.

• Keep chickens confined to your property.

• Nuisance complaints (noise, odor, mess) can lead to fines or removal.

Rural Washington County has more flexible guidelines, especially in towns like East Montpelier and Plainfield, where small-scale farming is encouraged.

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Rutland County (Rutland City, Fair Haven)

Is backyard chicken keeping allowed in Rutland County?
Yes, particularly in rural and residential areas.

Rutland City:

• Permits up to 6 hens per lot.

• Roosters are not allowed in the city.

• Coops must be set back from property lines and kept clean.

• Chickens must be contained and not allowed to roam.

Fair Haven and surrounding areas:

• Many parts of Rutland County allow chickens without strict oversight, especially in agriculturally zoned areas.

• Roosters may be allowed depending on lot size and town ordinances.

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Franklin County (St. Albans, Swanton)

Chicken-friendly policies? You bet.

St. Albans (City and Town):

• Backyard chickens are permitted.

• Up to 6 hens, no roosters in residential areas.

• Coops must meet setback requirements and be kept sanitary.

Swanton:

• Generally chicken-friendly.

• Most properties allow chickens; however, zoning must be verified, especially near village centers.

Franklin County has a strong agricultural heritage, and most rural areas are supportive of backyard flocks.

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Windham County (Brattleboro, Dover)

Are chickens allowed in southeastern Vermont?
Yes, and it’s a growing trend.

Brattleboro:

• Chickens are allowed within town limits.

• Up to 5 hens, no roosters.

• Coops must be secure and cleaned regularly.

• Noise complaints or sanitation issues can lead to city involvement.

Dover:

• Chickens are permitted in most zoning districts.

• Specific rules depend on whether your property is zoned residential or agricultural.

• Roosters may be allowed on larger lots.

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Windsor County (Woodstock, Springfield)

What are the chicken laws in Windsor County?
Flexible—especially outside village areas.

Woodstock:

• Backyard chickens allowed.

• Up to 6 hens, no roosters.

• Coops must be discreet and clean.

• Chickens must stay on your property and be enclosed.

Springfield:

• Allows chickens in most residential areas.

• Coop must be 10–25 feet from any dwelling.

• Roosters are generally not allowed in town.

Windsor County’s rural layout makes it ideal for chicken keeping, particularly outside of dense neighborhoods.

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Addison County (Middlebury, Vergennes)

Can you raise chickens in Addison County?
Absolutely.

Middlebury:

• Chickens allowed in most zoning districts.

• Limit: 6–8 hens, no roosters.

• Must follow coop setback and hygiene standards.

• Chickens must be fenced in and not free-roaming.

Vergennes:

• Permits backyard chickens in residential zones.

• Coops must be placed behind the home and out of public view.

• No selling or slaughtering allowed on premises.

Addison County towns often blend traditional farming practices with suburban living, making them ideal for hobby chicken keepers.

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Common Chicken Laws in Vermont: Quick Reference Table

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Coop Size and Placement Guidelines in Vermont

Most towns don’t just care if you have chickens—they care how you keep them. Here are general coop rules seen throughout Vermont:

• 3–4 square feet per chicken inside the coop

• 8–10 square feet per chicken in the run

• Coops must be predator-proof and well-ventilated

• Setback: Usually 10–25 feet from neighboring properties

• Cleanliness: Must prevent odors, flies, or rodents

Need help figuring out how big your coop should be? Use the chicken coop calculator to plan the perfect, legal, and comfortable home for your flock.

Whether you’re raising 3 hens or 10, the chicken coop calculator ensures you’re building the right size to comply with local laws and keep your birds happy.

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How to Keep Chickens Legally and Responsibly in Vermont

Here’s a checklist for staying on the right side of the law:

• Check your town zoning and animal ordinances before getting chickens.

• Avoid roosters unless your zoning specifically allows them.

• Maintain a clean and quiet coop to avoid complaints.

• Talk to your neighbors—a good relationship helps avoid legal issues.

• Secure your coop to prevent escapes and predator problems.

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Conclusion: Raising Chickens in Vermont Starts with Knowing the Law

Vermont is a chicken keeper’s paradise—but only if you understand the local rules. From Burlington to Brattleboro, laws vary by county and even by town. Always start with your city or zoning office to avoid any surprises down the road.

Once you’re ready to build your coop, make it easy on yourself. Use the chicken coop calculator to calculate how much coop space your chicken needs—and build it right the first time.

Raising chickens in Vermont is rewarding, fun, and totally legal—when done the right way. Now you know how.