Can I Have Chickens In My Backyard in Delaware?

Backyard chicken keeping is growing in popularity across Delaware, but it’s important to know what’s allowed in your area before starting. Understanding these guidelines will help ensure a smooth experience and keep your chickens safe. Below, we’ve outlined the key regulations for keeping chickens in Delaware based on different areas.

Is it Legal to Have Chickens in Your Backyard in Delaware?

Yes, keeping backyard chickens is legal in Delaware, but specific rules depend on your city or county. Rules on flock size, coop placement, and whether roosters are allowed vary by city and county. It’s important to check with your local government to ensure you follow all regulations and avoid potential fines.

Do You Need A Permit for Chickens in Delaware?

Whether you need a permit for backyard chickens in Delaware depends on your location. Some cities and counties require permits, especially if you plan to keep more than a certain number of chickens or build a large coop. Other areas may allow chickens without a permit as long as you follow local regulations on coop placement, sanitation, and noise control. It’s best to check with your local zoning office to determine if a permit is needed in your area.

How Many Chickens Can I Have in Delaware?

The number of chickens you can have in Delaware depends on local regulations, which vary by city and county. Some areas allow a small number, such as three to six hens, while others permit larger flocks, like Dover, allowing up to 25 chickens. Additionally, there may be restrictions on keeping roosters due to noise concerns. To ensure compliance, check with your local zoning or animal control office for specific limits in your area.

Laws for Keeping Backyard Chickens in Delaware By County

Below are the 3 counties in Delaware and their specific backyard chicken regulations. Click here to be taken to our city regulation section.

Does Kent County, DE, Allow Backyard Chickens?

Yes, Kent County allows backyard chickens, but with regulations. Chickens are only allowed in lot areas greater than 15,000 square feet and must be registered with the Delaware Department of Agriculture. No more than five chickens are allowed, and roosters are prohibited unless on a farm. For more information, contact the county’s Planning Services.

Does New Castle County, DE, Allow Backyard Chickens?

Yes, backyard chickens are allowed, but only in specific circumstances. The land has to be greater than one acre and not in a residential district. This includes Bear, Claymont, Hockessin, and other cities. Check with your town or the county’s Planning Department for more information.

Does Sussex County, DE, Allow Backyard Chickens?

Yes, chickens are allowed in Sussex County. In most cases, the requirement is for chicken houses to be 400 feet from dwellings, 200 feet from roads, and 100 feet from property lines with a 25-foot vegetative buffer. For more information, contact Planning and Zoning.

Chicken Laws For Cities in Delaware

Below are some chicken regulations in cities in Delaware. Click here to be taken back up to the county regulation section.

Can I Have Chickens In Wilmington, DE?

Unfortunately no, chickens are not allowed in Wilmington. You can find more information in their municipal code.

Can I Have Chickens In Dover, DE?

Yes, chickens are allowed to Dover, and you can have up to 25! They must be kept in chicken coops 10 feet from structures and 3 feet from property lines. Roosters are not allowed in Dover. For more information, visit their Planning and Inspections Department.

Can I Have Chickens In Newark, DE?

Yes, chickens are allowed in Newark! You can have up to 6 hens, and roosters are prohibited. Coops must be located in the backyard 25 feet from neighboring homes and 10 feet from property lines. For more information, contact Planning and Development.

Can I Have Chickens In Middletown, DE?

No, chickens are not allowed in Middletown, Delaware. Read more in their code provided here.

Can I Have Chickens In Milford, DE?

No, you can no longer have backyard chickens in Milford, DE. For more information, reach out to the City of Milford’s City Council. 

Can I Have Chickens In Millsboro, DE?

Yes, chickens are allowed, but there are housing regulations. Coops cannot exceed 200 square feet without prior approval from the Town Council and must be placed 500 feet from any structure used for human habitation. Additionally, chickens must be kept clean, dry, and well-ventilated, with their yard free from odors or decaying food. For more information, read the town’s code here.

Other FAQs About Keeping Backyard Chickens in Delaware

Can I Have Backyard Chickens in Delaware?

Yes, you can have backyard chickens in Delaware, but the rules vary depending on your location. Urban and suburban areas may have stricter regulations, while rural zones typically allow more flexibility. To ensure compliance, check with your local zoning office for specific backyard chicken laws in your area

Can I Let My Chickens Free-Range in My Backyard?

In Delaware, whether you can let your chickens free-range in your backyard depends on local zoning laws and regulations. Some areas require chickens to be kept in a secure coop or run, while others allow free-ranging as long as the birds remain on your property. To avoid fines or complaints, check with your local authorities to ensure compliance with fencing or containment requirements.

Can I Have A Rooster In My Backyard in Delaware?

In most cases, roosters are not allowed in residential areas of Delaware due to noise concerns. Some rural or agriculturally zoned properties may permit roosters, but many cities and towns prohibit them to prevent disturbances. It’s best to check with your local zoning office to confirm specific regulations in your area.

Can I Sell My Chicken Eggs in Delaware?

In order to sell eggs in Delaware, you will need to obtain an Egg Dealer license from the Delaware Department of Agriculture. Read more information on eggs in Delaware in the Delaware Code.

Ready to Start Your Backyard Chicken-Keeping Journey?

In Delaware, many municipalities have specific rules when it comes to raising chickens in your backyard, including requirements for enclosures and coops. At The Hen House Collection, we offer a variety of coop sizes and designs to meet these local regulations, with features like predator-resistant doors, proper ventilation, and easy maintenance options. If your area has particular needs, we can collaborate with you to create a custom coop that complies with all the necessary guidelines.

Starting your chicken-keeping journey? The Hen House Collection is here to guide you every step of the way. Explore our helpful resources, from selecting the best egg-laying breeds to finding the ideal chicken coop for your backyard.