Chicken Zoning Laws in Pennsylvania: A Complete Guide for Backyard Flock Owners
Want to raise backyard chickens in Pennsylvania? You’re not alone. From Pittsburgh to Philadelphia and everywhere in between, more Pennsylvanians are turning to backyard poultry for fresh eggs, self-sufficiency, and a taste of the homesteading lifestyle. But here’s the thing—before you start building a coop or ordering chicks, you need to know the zoning laws in your area.
Pennsylvania doesn’t have a statewide law governing chicken keeping. Each city, borough, and township sets its own rules. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to raise chickens legally and successfully in the Keystone State.
Are Chickens Legal in Pennsylvania?
Yes, chickens are legal in many parts of Pennsylvania, but the rules vary by location. Some municipalities welcome backyard flocks, while others restrict or prohibit them entirely in residential areas. That’s why it’s crucial to check your local zoning ordinance before getting started.
Most areas allow a limited number of hens, often with restrictions on roosters, coop placement, and sanitation. Urban areas tend to have tighter regulations, while rural communities are typically more lenient.
How Pennsylvania Zoning Impacts Chicken Keeping
Pennsylvania municipalities use zoning to regulate land use, including whether or not you can keep chickens on your property. The most common zoning classifications include:
- Agricultural (A, AG): Usually allows unlimited chickens, including roosters.
- Rural Residential (RR): Often allows chickens with some restrictions.
- Urban Residential (R-1, R-2): Tighter limits or outright bans on poultry.
- Mixed Use or Village Zones: May allow chickens under conditional use or special permit.
If you’re unsure of your property’s zoning, check your county or township’s zoning map online or contact the local zoning officer directly.
Backyard Chicken Laws by City in Pennsylvania
Let’s look at how some major cities in Pennsylvania regulate chicken keeping:
Philadelphia
As of now, chickens are prohibited in most residential zones in Philadelphia. The city’s zoning code classifies chickens as livestock, and livestock is not allowed in residential areas. However, urban agriculture advocates are working to change this.
Residents who want to keep chickens must apply for a zoning variance, which is a lengthy and often difficult process.
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is more progressive when it comes to chickens. Under the Urban Agriculture Zoning Code:
- Up to 4 hens allowed on lots under 2,000 square feet
- 6 hens allowed on lots over 2,000 square feet
- No roosters permitted
- Coops must be at least 10 feet from property lines and 15 feet from neighboring homes
A permit is required, and annual inspections may be conducted by Animal Control. If you’re planning a coop in Pittsburgh, make sure it meets these requirements. Use the Chicken Coop Calculator to ensure your setup is both legal and bird-friendly.
Allentown
In Allentown, the laws are less accommodating. Chickens are not allowed in most residential areas unless the property is zoned agricultural or rural. Some residents have managed to obtain special use permits, but it’s not guaranteed.
Harrisburg
Harrisburg allows backyard chickens with limitations:
- Maximum of 4 hens
- No roosters
- Permits and inspections required
- Coops must be 25 feet from neighboring dwellings
The city has strict animal control ordinances, so proper planning and compliance are essential.
Common Chicken Zoning Rules Across Pennsylvania
Even though local laws vary, here are some typical chicken-related rules you’ll find in many PA communities:
| Requirement | Typical Rule |
|---|---|
| Number of Hens | Usually 4 to 6 allowed without permit |
| Roosters | Generally prohibited in residential areas |
| Permit | May be required in urban and suburban areas |
| Setback Requirements | 10–25 feet from property lines or neighboring structures |
| Cleanliness | Must prevent odors, pests, and waste accumulation |
Violating these rules could lead to fines, complaints, or forced removal of your chickens.
How to Check Local Chicken Laws in Pennsylvania
To confirm whether chickens are allowed on your property, follow these steps:
- Visit your city or township website and search the municipal code
- Contact your local zoning officer or planning department
- Check zoning maps to identify your property’s zoning category
- Review HOA rules if you live in a planned neighborhood
Once you’ve confirmed you can keep chickens, the next step is to plan your coop. Visit the Chicken Coop Calculator to design a coop that meets both space and zoning requirements. This tool helps you calculate the exact square footage needed based on the number of birds you plan to keep.
What to Do If Chickens Are Banned in Your Area
If your local government currently prohibits chickens, all hope is not lost. You can:
- Apply for a variance or special exception to the zoning code
- Petition your city council or township supervisors for a code amendment
- Start a local advocacy group to push for urban agriculture rights
Many Pennsylvania towns have updated their chicken laws in recent years due to public demand. If enough residents show interest, your municipality may reconsider outdated restrictions.
Tips for Legal and Responsible Chicken Keeping
Even if you’re allowed to keep chickens, following best practices will help you avoid neighbor disputes or zoning issues:
- Build a secure, predator-proof coop
- Keep your coop clean and odor-free
- Limit noise by not keeping roosters
- Provide fresh food and water daily
- Don’t let chickens roam off your property
Need help figuring out how much space you’ll need for your hens? Use the Chicken Coop Calculator to plan a compliant and comfortable living space for your flock.
Conclusion: Know the Law, Raise Happy Hens
Chicken zoning laws in Pennsylvania vary dramatically depending on where you live. The key to successful backyard chicken keeping is doing your homework. Check your local zoning codes, get the proper permits, and follow all spacing and cleanliness requirements.
And don’t forget—using tools like the Chicken Coop Calculator can make your planning process easier, helping you design a legal and efficient coop that meets the specific needs of your property and your flock.
Ready to start your flock? Don’t build blind. Visit Chicken Coop Calculator to ensure your setup is safe, legal, and built to last in any part of Pennsylvania.