Decatur Chicken Laws: How to Raise Backyard Chicken
Thinking about raising backyard chickens in Decatur, Alabama? You’re not alone. With fresh eggs, natural fertilizer, and a step toward food independence, more homeowners are turning to poultry keeping. But before you build that coop or pick up your first hens, it’s important to understand the Decatur chicken laws—because not every property is eligible, and there are specific rules you must follow.
This guide will break down everything you need to know to legally and responsibly raise chickens in Decatur, including zoning, coop requirements, flock limits, and more.
Are Chickens Allowed in Decatur, Alabama?
Yes, chickens are allowed in Decatur—but only in certain zones and under strict regulations.
The City of Decatur permits backyard chickens as part of its effort to support small-scale agriculture and sustainability. However, it also enforces zoning rules, sanitation standards, and nuisance regulations to ensure chickens don’t disturb neighbors or create health issues.
Decatur Chicken Laws: What You Need to Know
Backyard poultry is legal in Decatur, but homeowners must meet strict zoning, placement, and care regulations.
Key Rules You Should Follow:
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Zoning Restrictions: Chickens are allowed in residential-agricultural and agricultural zones. In standard residential zones, they may be prohibited or require a conditional use permit.
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Flock Limits: Most residential properties are limited to no more than 6 hens. Larger flocks may be allowed in rural or agricultural areas.
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Roosters: Roosters are not allowed in residential areas due to noise concerns and nuisance ordinances.
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Coop Placement: Coops must be placed in the rear yard and meet minimum setback requirements of 25–50 feet from neighboring property lines and homes.
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Containment: Chickens must be housed in a secure, enclosed coop or fenced run at all times.
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Sanitation: Coops must be clean, odor-free, and free from pest-attracting waste, with regular maintenance required.
To make sure your setup complies, use Chicken Coop Calculator to plan your coop and flock size legally.
Zoning and Permits in Decatur
Your zoning designation determines whether you’re allowed to raise chickens—and how many.
How to Check:
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Contact Decatur’s Planning Department or Zoning Office to find out your property’s zoning.
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Ask if chickens are allowed under your specific zone and if a special or conditional use permit is required.
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Request information on required setbacks, coop design, and maximum flock size.
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Review HOA or subdivision covenants, which may prohibit poultry even if the city allows it.
Once your zoning is confirmed, plan a compliant setup with ChickenCoopCalculator.com.
Chicken Coop Rules in Decatur
Even if you’re zoned to keep chickens, your coop must meet specific standards.
Coop Requirements:
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Location: Coops must be placed in the rear yard only—not visible from the street.
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Setback Distance: At least 25–50 feet from property lines and neighboring dwellings (confirm with zoning).
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Minimum Space:
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4 sq ft per hen inside the coop
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10 sq ft per hen in an enclosed run
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Construction Standards:
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Must be secure, predator-proof, and enclosed
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Must have adequate ventilation and protection from weather
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Must allow for easy cleaning and drainage
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Chicken Coop Calculator helps you design a coop that meets these guidelines based on your exact lot size.
Are Roosters Allowed in Decatur?
No, roosters are not permitted in residential areas of Decatur.
Their crowing is considered a noise nuisance and is prohibited under city ordinances. Even in rural zones, roosters may be subject to setback and noise control regulations.
Good news: Hens do not need a rooster to lay eggs—so you’ll still enjoy fresh eggs without the noise.
How Many Chickens Can You Keep in Decatur?
Most homeowners in Decatur are allowed to keep up to 6 hens. The exact number depends on your zoning and property size.
Flock Limit Summary:
| Zoning Type | Max Chickens | Roosters Allowed? |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Residential | Not permitted without permit | No |
| Residential-Agricultural | Up to 6 hens (verify) | Possibly, with conditions |
| Agricultural | Unlimited (check with city) | Yes, with restrictions |
Not sure what your zoning allows? Chicken Coop Calculator makes it easy to find the right number based on your setup.
What Happens If You Break Chicken Laws in Decatur?
Violating Decatur’s chicken ordinances can lead to fines, citations, and mandatory removal of your chickens.
Common Violations:
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Keeping roosters in restricted zones
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Housing too many hens
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Poor coop sanitation or odor issues
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Letting chickens roam off-property
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Placing the coop too close to a neighbor’s property
If You’re Cited:
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Take action immediately—move your coop, clean your setup, or reduce your flock.
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Work with local officials—they may grant you time to comply with local code.
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Avoid repeat issues by using Chicken Coop Calculator to stay within the law.
Responsible Chicken Keeping in Decatur
Legal compliance is important—but being a respectful and responsible neighbor makes chicken keeping enjoyable for everyone.
Best Practices:
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Clean your coop at least weekly to control flies and odor.
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Use clean, absorbent bedding such as pine shavings or straw.
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Store feed in secure containers to keep pests away.
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Select quiet, calm breeds like Buff Orpingtons or Barred Rocks.
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Inform your neighbors—a dozen eggs here and there can help ease any concerns.
Track coop maintenance, flock health, and feeding schedules with ChickenCoopCalculator.com.
Why Chickens Are a Great Fit for Decatur Homes
With the right planning and legal setup, chickens are a fantastic addition to homes in Decatur:
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Fresh, organic eggs every day
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Natural fertilizer for your garden
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Lower grocery costs
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Fun and educational for families
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Better use of food scraps
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Support for sustainable living
Backyard chickens are easy to manage and provide real value—especially in a community-minded city like Decatur.
Conclusion
Yes, you can raise chickens in Decatur—but only if you follow the city’s rules. Zoning, permits, coop placement, sanitation, and neighbor considerations all play a role in whether your backyard flock will be a success.
Want to get started the right way? Visit Chicken Coop Calculator to plan your legal flock, build a city-compliant coop, and keep your chickens healthy and safe.
Stay compliant. Be responsible. And enjoy fresh eggs in your own backyard—right here in Decatur, Alabama.