Chicken Laws by County in Virginia

Raising backyard chickens in Virginia is more popular than ever—and for good reason. From fresh eggs to a sustainable lifestyle, chickens offer plenty of benefits. But before you bring home that first hen, you need to understand one thing: chicken laws vary by county and even by neighborhood.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down chicken laws across major counties in Virginia so you can confidently build your coop, avoid fines, and raise a happy, legal flock.

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Are Chickens Legal in Virginia?

Yes, chickens are allowed in many counties and cities in Virginia, but the rules vary depending on your local zoning, your lot size, and whether you’re in an incorporated city or an unincorporated rural area.

What typically impacts your ability to raise chickens:

• Your property’s zoning classification

• Number of chickens allowed

• Rooster restrictions

• Minimum lot sizes

• Coop placement, setback, and cleanliness rules

• HOA rules, which can override local ordinances

Let’s explore Virginia chicken laws county by county.

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Fairfax County

Are chickens allowed in Fairfax County?
Yes—but under specific conditions.

• You can keep up to 4 hens on lots that are at least 2 acres.

• Roosters are prohibited.

• Coop must be set back at least 10 feet from property lines and maintained cleanly.

• Chickens must be for personal use only—no commercial operations in residential zones.

• In 2021, Fairfax launched an Urban Agriculture zoning amendment, expanding flexibility with a special permit for smaller lots.

Before getting chickens, contact the zoning office or apply for a special permit if your property doesn’t meet the default acreage requirements.

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Loudoun County

Can you keep chickens in Loudoun County?
Yes—especially in rural zones.

• Agricultural and rural residential zones typically allow chickens with minimal restrictions.

• In suburban areas, the law varies:

  • Chickens may be allowed on residential lots over 1 acre.

  • Roosters are allowed only in agricultural zones.

  • Coop placement must meet setback standards, often 25 feet from neighboring homes.

• HOAs often prohibit chickens, even when zoning allows them.

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Prince William County

What’s the chicken policy in Prince William County?
Chicken-keeping is possible—but regulated.

• Allowed in A-1 (agricultural) zones without a permit.

• For residential zones (R4–R16), a special use permit is required.

• Roosters are generally not allowed in residential zones due to noise.

• Coop setbacks: Typically 25 feet from any dwelling.

Prince William offers a good mix of suburban and rural areas—your ability to keep chickens depends on your zoning classification and lot size.

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Arlington County

Are backyard chickens allowed in Arlington?
Yes—but with limits.

• Residents can keep up to 4 hens in single-family residential zones.

• Roosters are not allowed.

• No permit is required, but chickens must be housed in a predator-proof coop in the backyard.

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

Arlington has some of the most urban-friendly chicken laws in Northern Virginia—but you still need to comply with sanitation and containment rules.

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Henrico County

What about Henrico County?
Chickens are allowed with few restrictions in some areas.

• Permitted in agricultural and semi-rural zones.

• In residential areas, you must have at least 1 acre to keep chickens.

• Roosters are not permitted in residential zones.

• Coops must be kept clean, secure, and at least 25 feet from neighboring structures.

You may need a conditional use permit in some suburban zones, especially near densely populated neighborhoods.

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Chesterfield County

Is chicken-keeping legal in Chesterfield County?
Yes—especially after recent ordinance updates.

• Backyard chickens are allowed on lots of at least 1 acre.

• Limit: 6 hens per acre; roosters prohibited.

• Coop must be located in the rear yard and 50 feet from any other dwelling.

• A free registration with the county is required before you start.

This county has embraced small-scale agriculture in residential zones—but only when it’s well-regulated and respectful of neighbors.

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Richmond City

Can you keep chickens inside Richmond city limits?
Yes—with a permit.

• Richmond allows up to 4 hens.

• Roosters are not permitted.

• A permit and annual renewal fee are required.

• Coops must be at least 10 feet from property lines and built to prevent predators.

• You may need to notify or get consent from adjacent property owners.

Urban chicken keeping is gaining traction in Richmond, and the city supports it—as long as it’s managed cleanly and responsibly.

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Albemarle County (Charlottesville Area)

Is backyard chicken keeping allowed in Albemarle County?
Yes—very chicken-friendly.

• Up to 25 chickens allowed on residential lots over 1 acre.

• Roosters allowed only on larger agricultural lots.

• Coops must follow standard property line setbacks and be kept clean.

Charlottesville (City):

• Allows up to 6 hens, no roosters.

• A special permit may be required.

• Coop must be in rear yard and follow 10-foot setbacks.

Rural Albemarle County offers great flexibility, making it ideal for hobby farmers.

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Montgomery County (Blacksburg, Christiansburg)

What are the chicken laws in Montgomery County?
Mostly supportive of backyard flocks.

• Allowed in agricultural and low-density residential zones.

• Roosters are allowed in rural zones but discouraged in suburban areas.

• Coop must be clean, enclosed, and set back from neighboring homes.

• No set flock limit in most unincorporated areas.

Blacksburg:

• Permits up to 6 hens, no roosters, in residential zones.

• Coop must be registered and follow sanitation rules.

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Roanoke County and Roanoke City

Can you raise chickens in Roanoke County?
Yes—with few hurdles.

• Allowed in most residential zones with a zoning permit.

• Up to 10 hens, no roosters.

• Coop must be in the backyard, 15–25 feet from neighbors.

Roanoke City:

• Chickens allowed with a permit and annual inspection.

• Limit: 6 hens, no roosters.

• Coop placement and sanitation are strictly enforced.

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Common Virginia Chicken Laws by County: Quick Table

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Chicken Coop Requirements in Virginia

Whether you’re in a city or out in the country, coops must meet basic standards across all counties:

• 3–5 square feet per chicken inside the coop

• 8–10 square feet per chicken in the outdoor run

• Coops must be clean, ventilated, and secure from predators

• Minimum setbacks: 10–25 feet from homes or property lines

• Chickens must be confined to your property

Not sure how big your coop should be? Use this helpful chicken coop calculator to determine the perfect size based on your flock and your property layout.

You can also use the chicken coop calculator to adjust for future expansions, lot constraints, and zoning compliance.

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Tips for Legal and Happy Chicken Keeping in Virginia

Here’s how to stay compliant and keep your flock thriving:

• Check your local zoning before buying chickens.

• Register or apply for a permit if required.

• Avoid roosters unless your area explicitly allows them.

• Keep your coop clean and secure to avoid neighbor complaints.

• Use a coop space calculator to make sure you’re giving your flock enough room.

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Conclusion: Know Your Virginia Chicken Laws Before You Build

Raising chickens in Virginia is totally doable—but the rules vary across counties, cities, and even neighborhoods. Whether you’re in Fairfax, Roanoke, or Richmond, your first step is to understand the local zoning, permit, and flock rules.

And when you’re ready to build or expand your coop, don’t leave it to guesswork. Use the chicken coop calculator to calculate how much coop space your chicken needs and stay compliant from the start.

With the right planning, you can enjoy fresh eggs, happy hens, and total peace of mind—right in your own backyard.