Raising backyard chickens has become increasingly popular in Florida, offering fresh eggs, natural pest control, and a sustainable way to connect with food sources. However, not all Florida residents can freely keep chickens in their yards. Local laws vary widely, with some counties and cities welcoming backyard flocks, while others impose strict regulations—or even outright bans.
If you’re wondering whether you can keep chickens in your Florida backyard, this guide will provide the answers. We’ll break down the rules and regulations for each county, covering permit requirements, flock size limits, zoning restrictions, and more.
Is It Legal to Have Chickens in Your Backyard in Florida?
Yes, many areas in Florida have backyard chicken-friendly laws. However, some areas still prohibit them. While laws vary across the state, Florida remains largely welcoming to backyard chicken keeping.
Keep reading as we explore each county and some cities in Florida to determine where chickens are permitted and what the requirements are for keeping them.
Do You Need A Permit to Have Chickens in Florida?
Yes, many areas require a permit to keep chickens, and some counties even mandate completing a backyard chicken-keeping course. The type of permit varies—some areas have specific backyard chicken permits, while others require a special use permit. If your chicken coop is large enough, you might also need a building permit. Stay tuned as we cover these requirements for each county and certain cities within Florida.
How Many Chickens Can I Have in Florida?
The number of chickens allowed in Florida varies by county, city, and even town. Some areas permit only a minimal number, typically between 2-6, while others allow up to 20! The specific limit depends on your location, property size, and zoning regulations.
Later, we’ll cover each county, along with several cities and towns in Florida, detailing how many chickens they allow so you can find the exact number for your area.
Chicken Laws By County in Florida
Below is a list of the 67 counties in Florida and their backyard chicken-keeping requirements. Feel free to click on your county in the chart below to skip to the regulations specific to your area!
Does Alachua County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Keeping poultry, such as chickens, is permitted in Alachua County on properties smaller than 5 acres, as long as no more than six chickens are kept as an accessory to a single-family residence and are used only for personal purposes. Backyard chickens are allowed in properties zoned A, A-RB, RE, and RE-1.
Your chickens must not become a nuisance. This means you are required to clean your coop regularly to prevent odor buildup. Additionally, roosters are strictly prohibited in residentially zoned districts.
All chickens must be kept in an enclosed structure, such as a chicken coop or shed. There are also setback requirements that vary by zoning designation. For more information on these requirements, please contact Alachua County’s Code Administration office.
Does Baker County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
It is unclear whether backyard chickens are allowed at this time. The county’s animal and zoning regulations do not mention chickens or their permissibility in backyards. The only relevant note is that poultry, including chickens, are not classified as exotic animals.
Whether you can keep chickens on your property is likely determined by local zoning, planning, or code enforcement officials. Please contact them for clarification.
If you live in an unincorporated area of the county, reach out to Baker County’s Community Development Department to learn about their backyard chicken regulations.
Can I Have Chickens in My Backyard in Bay County, Florida?
Bay County Animal Services states that there is no legislation limiting the number of animals you can keep on your property. However, this only applies to unincorporated areas. They recommend contacting your city’s local code enforcement department, as individual cities may have their own regulations on the number of backyard chickens allowed.
Can I Have Chickens in My Backyard in Bradford County, Florida?
Yes, Bradford County permits chickens on Rural Residential (RR)-zoned properties. The only requirement seems to be that the structure housing them must be at least 150 feet from any lot line. This appears to be the only residential property designation that allows backyard chickens. However, regulations may vary depending on your city or town. Be sure to check with your local zoning or code enforcement officials to confirm what is allowed.
Can I Have Chickens in My Backyard in Brevard County, Florida?
Yes, chickens are allowed on residential properties. The number of chickens you can have depends on your zoning designation, but you are permitted at least one hen—roosters are not allowed on residentially zoned properties.
For example, single-family residential zones with at least half an acre of land may have up to four chickens. If you have an additional half acre, you can have four more chickens, and so on as the property size increases.
If you have any questions about this or setback requirements for coops, please contact the Brevard County Planning & Development Department.
Can I Have Chickens in My Backyard in Broward County, Florida?
It is unclear what is permitted at the county level. However, many cities within the county have their own regulations regarding backyard chickens, so it’s important to check with your city or town’s zoning department first.
For example, Fort Lauderdale does not allow backyard chickens. On the other hand, Oakland Park permits them as long as they are kept in chicken coops or sheds and are not allowed to roam freely.
If you live in an unincorporated area and have questions about county-level requirements, please contact Broward County Code Compliance.
Does Calhoun County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens may be permitted in Calhoun County, Florida. The county’s land development regulations only state that chickens should not be loud enough to be considered a nuisance in residential zones. However, it is unclear if this applies to all residential properties or if there are specific square footage, setback requirements, or other rules to follow.
The decision may be up to your city or town officials, so check with them first. If you live in an unincorporated part of the county and need more details on backyard chicken keeping, contact the Calhoun County Planning Department.
Does Charlotte County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, keeping backyard chickens is permitted in Charlotte County, Florida, as an accessory use, but it requires a permit.
- A maximum of 4 hens is allowed on lots at least 10,000 square feet in size.
- Up to 6 hens can be kept on lots 20,000 square feet or larger.
All chickens must be kept in the rear yard of a residential single-family property and housed in a chicken coop. The coop must be enclosed by a fully opaque, six-foot-high fence or wall on all sides. Additionally, chicken coops must comply with setback requirements for accessory structures in Charlotte County.
For any questions about these regulations, please contact Charlotte County Community Development.
Does Citrus County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
The county’s code of ordinances does not mention any laws or zoning designations related to keeping chickens, making it unclear what is allowed at the county level. However, backyard chickens are permitted in Inverness, Florida, a city within Citrus County. This suggests that chicken-keeping regulations may vary depending on where you live within the county.
To ensure compliance, check with your local zoning or code compliance officials before keeping chickens in your backyard. If you live in an unincorporated area of the county, contact the Citrus County Code Compliance Department for guidance.
Does Clay County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, backyard chickens are allowed on residentially zoned properties with a single-family dwelling. You can keep up to four chickens at a time, but they must be secured in a chicken coop or enclosure located in the rear yard.
The chicken coop cannot exceed 100 square feet and must comply with accessory structure setback requirements.
For information on setback requirements or any other questions, please contact Clay County’s Code Enforcement Department.
Does Collier County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, Collier County does not allow chickens on residentially zoned properties. However, if your property is in an estates-zoned district, you may keep up to 25 chickens per acre. To check if your property qualifies for this zoning designation, contact the Collier County Code Enforcement Division.
Does Columbia County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
The raising of poultry is permitted on Rural Residential (RR) zoned properties with at least three and a half acres of land. In Residential Single Family (RSF) zoning districts, keeping poultry is prohibited unless a “special exemption” is granted. Since there are no clearly defined requirements for keeping backyard chickens, it’s best to check with your local zoning or code enforcement office or contact the Columbia County Code Enforcement Department.
Does DeSoto County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, backyard chickens are allowed in residential areas, but you must first obtain pre-approval from the Development Director. Roosters are strictly prohibited.
Chickens must be kept in an enclosed area with a maximum height of 6 feet to prevent them from running at large. The coop must be located in the rear yard and placed at least 5 feet away from any rear or side property lines.
Does Dixie County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, according to the Dixie County Zoning Code, poultry raising is allowed on properties zoned as Rural Residential (RR). The only apparent requirement is that any structure used for housing chickens must be at least 25 feet from all lot lines. However, backyard chickens seem to be prohibited in Single-Family Residential Zoning Districts.
Whether you can keep backyard chickens depends on your property’s zoning designation. To confirm your zoning and any related regulations, check with Dixie County’s Community Development Department.
Does Duval County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
There doesn’t appear to be any clear county-level regulations regarding keeping chickens in your backyard in Duval County, Florida. The cities of Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach both have regulations permitting backyard chickens, so at least some areas within the county do allow you to keep backyard chickens. In this case, it’s best to just contact your local officials to find out what they allow before keeping chickens in your backyard.
Does Escambia County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, chickens can be kept in coops on properties with single-family dwellings as an accessory use. However, there are several requirements you must follow to keep chickens in Escambia County, Florida:
- A maximum of 8 chickens is allowed on lots ¼ acre or smaller.
- Roosters are not permitted unless they are kept at least 100 yards away from any inhabited neighboring residence.
- Chickens can roam freely in a fenced backyard from sunrise to sunset. Outside of these hours, they must be kept in secure coops or enclosures to prevent predator access.
- Coops and enclosures must be placed at least 10 feet from rear and side property lines and 20 feet from any neighboring residence.
If you have any questions about this at all, please visit or call Escambia Development Services at 850-554-2795.
Does Flagler County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chicken laws in Flagler County, Florida, vary by city or town, as each typically enforces its own regulations. At the county level, keeping animals for personal use appears to be permitted in Rural Residential (RR) zoning districts, though specific details are unclear. For clarification on county regulations, contact the Flagler County Planning & Zoning Department. Otherwise, check with your city or town zoning officials first to determine if backyard chickens are allowed in your area.
Does Franklin County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
It is unclear from the zoning ordinance and animal regulations if backyard chickens are permitted. Chickens are defined as domestic animals, which could suggest they are allowed similarly to cats or dogs. However, since there are no clearly defined regulations for keeping backyard chickens, it’s best to check with Franklin County Planning Services for clarification.
Does Gadsden County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Gadsden County permits agricultural uses in Rural Residential (RR) zoning districts, which would include the raising of poultry. Outside of this, no clear rules or requirements are outlined for keeping backyard chickens. If you have any further questions, please contact Gadsden County Code Enforcement or your city or town zoning or code enforcement officials.
Does Gilchrist County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens do not appear to be permitted in Gilchrist County. According to the county’s animal regulations, animals can only be kept on properties with the appropriate zoning designation. Their zoning code specifies that chickens are allowed on agriculturally zoned properties, but makes no mention of them in the list of permitted uses for residential ones.
For more clarity and to determine if backyard chickens are allowed on your property, please contact Gilchrist County’s Code Enforcement Department.
Does Glades County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Legislation on keeping chickens on residential properties is still under development. As of January 2024, Glades County appears to have decided to allow up to six chickens per home. Chickens must be kept in coops, which must comply with district setback requirements. However, it is unclear whether this decision has become official law.
For clarification on these new chicken-keeping requirements, please check with the Glades County Community Development Department.
Does Gulf County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
It’s unclear whether backyard chickens are permitted in Gulf County, Florida. The decision may be up to the zoning or code enforcement officials of individual cities or towns within the county, so check with them first. If there are no specific local requirements, contact the Gulf County Planning & Development Department to see if backyard chickens are allowed.
Does Hamilton County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, according to Hamilton County’s zoning regulations, raising poultry is permitted in “RR” (Rural Residential) zones, as long as the chicken coop or enclosure is at least 150 square feet from any side or rear lot line.
It appears that poultry is not allowed in other residentially zoned properties, but to be sure, check with Hamilton County’s Planning, Land Use, and Zoning Department. They can also provide information on permit requirements and the number of chickens allowed.
Does Hardee County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, Hardee County’s Land Development Code explicitly states that farm animals, such as chickens, are only allowed in A-1 and F-R zoned districts. This means chickens can only be kept in agricultural and farm districts, not in residentially zoned areas. If you would like to request a change to this regulation, please contact the Hardee County Board of County Commissioners at 863-773-9430.
Does Hendry County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, backyard chickens are allowed on Rural-Residential zoned parcels, including properties with RR, RR-M, and RR-F zoning designations. You may keep up to 10 chickens on properties up to 1.25 acres. For every additional 1.25 acres, you can have 5 more chickens.
Permitting requirements for backyard chickens vary based on property size. If you’re interested in keeping chickens, start by checking with the Hendry County Planning & Zoning Department to confirm your zoning designation. They can help you determine setbacks, permits, and the number of chickens allowed based on your property size. They can also answer any other questions you may have about keeping backyard chickens in the county.
Does Hernando County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Hernando County allows up to four backyard chickens on residentially zoned properties, but only for personal use. Roosters are strictly prohibited.
To keep chickens in your backyard, you must first obtain a permit. For more information on requirements and permits, please call 352-754-4050 ext. 29150.
Does Highlands County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, chickens are allowed in residentially zoned areas of Highlands County, Florida, as long as certain requirements are met.
- In R-1A Districts, up to two hens are permitted, provided they are kept in a proper enclosure and do not become a nuisance.
- The enclosure must be at least 25 feet from any adjoining property lines.
- These same conditions apply as a special exception use in R-3 NC zoning districts and M-1 mobile home subdivision districts.
For questions about these requirements or to determine your property’s zoning designation, please contact the Highlands County Development Services Department.
Does Hillsborough County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Hillsborough County has specific requirements for keeping backyard chickens, including:
- Chickens must be kept as an accessory use to a detached single-family home or a two-family attached duplex.
- A maximum of 5 chickens are allowed per parcel.
- Roosters are strictly prohibited.
- Chickens must always be confined in a fully enclosed coop.
- The coop must:
- Be located in the rear lot.
- Be no taller than 6 feet.
- Have a maximum ground coverage of 150 square feet.
- Be placed at least 10 feet from side and rear lot lines.
- The on-site sale of eggs is prohibited.
Does Holmes County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
The regulations are unclear. According to their zoning regulations, in an RANC zoning district (Residential, Agricultural, Neighborhood, and Commercial), you are permitted to keep horses, and stables, and engage in other agricultural uses. However, there is no explicit mention of keeping chickens, poultry, or fowl.
To clarify your zoning designation and determine whether you can keep chickens on your property, as well as details regarding quantity limits, permitting, and coop setback requirements, please contact the Holmes County Building, Planning, and Zoning Department for more information.
Does Indian River County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, backyard chickens are allowed in unincorporated areas of Indian River County. However, regulations vary by city and town, as local officials make the final decisions. For example, unincorporated areas of the county permit up to six hens but no roosters, while Sebastian, Florida, only allows two hens. To ensure compliance, check with your local planning or zoning officials to confirm your zoning designation, the number of chickens allowed, setback requirements, and any other applicable regulations.
Does Jackson County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Jackson County does not have traditional zoning or designated zoning districts. Because of this unique setup, it is unclear whether backyard chickens are permitted in residential areas. However, the county’s comprehensive plan includes a Mixed Use Urban Transitional (MUUT) “future land use” category, which appears to allow both residential and agricultural uses—potentially including backyard chickens. To confirm your property’s future land use category and whether backyard chickens are permitted, contact the Jackson County Planning Division for more information.
Does Jefferson County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Backyard chickens seem to be permitted in Jefferson County, Florida, but it’s unclear. Residential land use regulations don’t mention chickens or whether they are allowed, while most agricultural land use rules specifically reference chickens, suggesting they are permitted in those zones. This could mean chickens are only allowed in agricultural areas.
For clarity on what’s permitted on residential properties, contact the Jefferson County Planning Department at 850-342-0223.
Does Lafayette County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, but strict requirements must be met. Raising poultry is allowed in Rural Residential (“RR”) zoning districts, but only on properties of five acres or more. Additionally, the coop must be at least 300 feet from any lot line. In almost all other residential zones, keeping poultry is strictly prohibited. To advocate for more lenient backyard chicken laws, contact the Lafayette Board of County Commissioners.
Does Lake County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Chickens are allowed as an accessory use in the following districts: Estate Residential (R-2), Medium Residential (R-3), Medium Suburban Residential (R-4), Urban Residential (R-6), Mixed Residential (R-7), and Mixed Home Residential (RM).
The rules for keeping chickens are as follows:
- A maximum of 5 chickens may be kept.
- Chickens must always be kept in a coop or fenced-in enclosure.
- Manure must not accumulate in the coop or on the property.
- Chicken coops must be located in the rear yard and at least 20 feet from all property lines.
Does Lee County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
According to several news articles, the Lee County Commissioners voted against allowing backyard chickens in residential areas. However, Fort Myers, a city within Lee County, permits backyard chickens on single-family properties that have a Florida Homestead Exemption from the Lee County Property Appraiser. This means keeping chickens is possible in some areas.
For clarity, it may be best to contact your local planning or zoning department. If you need information on whether chickens are permitted in your zoning district in the unincorporated areas of Lee County, please reach out to their Community Development Department.
Does Leon County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
All single-family properties in Leon County may have up to 10 hens or ducks, but roosters are strictly prohibited. For details on setbacks, permits, or coop requirements, please contact Leon County Development Services.
Does Levy County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
The raising of domestic animals for personal use appears to be allowed as an accessory use to dwellings. However, it is unclear whether this includes chickens. For clarification, please consult the Levy County Planning & Zoning Department.
Does Liberty County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
At this moment in time, regulations for keeping backyard chickens are not clearly defined in Liberty County’s Land Use Regulations. Whether you can keep backyard chickens may depend on what your city or town government allows, so please check with your local zoning or planning officials first. For clarification on county-level requirements for backyard chickens, please contact Liberty County’s Planning & Zoning Department.
Does Madison County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
There are no clearly defined official requirements for keeping backyard chickens, but it does appear they are allowed in Madison County. According to their Land Development Code, in residentially zoned areas, agricultural uses are permitted. This may include raising chickens. For clarity on this matter, it’s best to check with the Madison County Planning & Zoning Department.
Does Manatee County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Manatee County permits residential properties to have up to 4 hens that are kept in a chicken coop or an enclosed structure that provides each chicken with at least 4 square feet of their own space. Roosters are strictly prohibited. Chickens must be kept for personal use; anyone keeping chickens on a residential property may not sell their eggs.
The chicken coop or enclosure must be at least 10 feet from any adjoining property line and 25 feet from any neighboring residential dwelling. It must be regularly cleaned and properly constructed so as to prevent predators from gaining access. For additional information on requirements for keeping backyard chickens in Manatee County, contact their Planning, Development, and Zoning Department at 941-749-3070.
Does Marion County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Marion County allows chickens on residential properties as long as the following requirements are met:
- Only female chickens (hens) are permitted.
- A maximum of six hens is allowed.
- Chickens are not permitted in duplexes, townhomes, multi-family homes, or similar units.
- Hens must be kept in a covered, fully enclosed chicken coop from dusk to dawn and in a fenced-in pen for the remainder of the time.
- Coops must be located only in side or rear yards.
- Coops must be kept clean.
- Coops must be set back at least 20 feet from any adjacent residential principal or accessory structure.
- Hens must be kept for personal use only; the sale of eggs, manure, or the hens is strictly prohibited.
If you have any questions about these requirements, please contact the Marion County Code Enforcement Department.
Does Martin County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
In most residential zones, keeping backyard chickens is strictly prohibited. Many county residents have even started a petition to change these laws. To support their movement, contact the Martin County Board of Commissioners and request that they allow chickens in residential areas.
Does Miami-Dade County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
The keeping of backyard chickens is strictly prohibited in single-family residential districts within Miami-Dade County. If you would like to advocate for backyard chickens to be permitted within the county, contact your representative on the Board of County Commissioners. You can enter your address on their webpage to find and contact the commissioner for your area.
Does Monroe County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
It is unclear. Neither the county’s animal regulations nor the land development code mention keeping chickens, poultry, or fowl on your property. For clarification on what is allowed under the county code of ordinances, it’s best to contact the Monroe County Code Compliance Department.
Does Nassau County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Nassau County, Florida, does not appear to permit backyard chickens. Their zoning code allows horses and ponies in residential zones but does not mention poultry, fowl, or chickens as a permitted use. For clarification, please contact the Nassau County Planning Department.
Does Okaloosa County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Chickens are permitted in unincorporated areas within Okaloosa County so long they are kept within a coop or enclosure during non-daylight hours that is placed at least 5 feet from any property line. However, many cities and towns within the county do not permit backyard chickens. If you reside within their jurisdiction, be sure to check with your local zoning or planning officials first.
Does Okeechobee County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
According to current animal control ordinances, chickens are not allowed on residential properties. Some news articles mention that local officials have been working to change this law, but it appears that it has not yet been passed. For the latest updates, contact the Community Development Department to confirm what is currently allowed. If you wish to support the proposed change, reach out to the County Board of Commissioners to advocate for backyard chickens.
Does Orange County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Orange County allows chickens on properties zoned for single-family residences. To keep chickens on your property, you must obtain a permit and follow these requirements:
- Complete the University of Florida Institute of Food & Agricultural Sciences Extension Orange County Backyard Chicken Training Class
- A maximum of 4 hens is allowed
- Roosters are not permitted
- Coops must be set back at least 10 feet from the rear property line
- For properties on side streets or coops on side lots, coops must be set back at least 15 feet
If you have any questions about these requirements, please contact the Orange County Planning & Development Department.
Does Osceola County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, but there are some limitations on the number of chickens you can keep and how they must be housed. Osceola County allows chickens on residential properties as long as they are kept in coops and do not wander off the owner’s property.
Keeping chickens must be an accessory use alongside another structure, and the coop must be set back at least 25 feet from any rear or side property lines. The coop cannot exceed 6 feet in height and is never allowed in front yards.
Osceola County permits up to 6 chickens per property. However, if you live in a duplex, townhouse, or multi-family home, keeping chickens is strictly prohibited.
Does Palm Beach County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
According to their code of ordinances, domesticated poultry is classified as livestock and must be properly fenced in on your property. However, the zoning regulations are not clear enough to determine whether poultry is permitted on residentially zoned properties or only in agricultural zoning districts.
To find out if chickens are allowed on your property, contact the Palm Beach County Planning, Zoning, & Building Department. They can confirm your property’s zoning designation and whether backyard chickens are permitted. Keep in mind that some cities within the county, such as West Palm Beach, do not allow backyard chickens. If you live in a city or town within Palm Beach County, check with your local government first, as they may have different regulations.
Does Pasco County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
According to their zoning code, the keeping of small animals, including chickens, for personal use, is permitted in Estate-Residential (E-R) zoning districts. You can have up to 20 chickens per acre. Roosters are strictly prohibited. It is unclear if they are permitted in any other residential zoning districts. Please confirm whether or not chickens are permitted in the backyard of your property by contacting Pasco County Planning & Development Services.
Does Pinellas County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, as long as your backyard chickens are for personal use and not for selling them, their eggs, their manure, or breeding them for commercial purposes. You may keep up to four female chickens on properties in the R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, and RPD zoning districts.
The chickens must be housed in a coop or another fenced enclosure. The coop must be located in the rear yard, comply with your zoning district’s setback requirements, and require a building permit if it exceeds 100 square feet. It must also be covered, well-ventilated, predator-proof, and provide adequate space for each hen.
Does Polk County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, according to section 222 of their Land Development Code, farming and animal grazing are allowed in all land use classifications, including in residential neighborhoods. To keep chickens on your residential property, you must keep your chickens in a coop that is kept at least 50 feet from any neighboring property line. There may be more requirements to follow, for more detailed information, please contact the Polk County Planning & Development Department.
Does Putnam County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, as of 2016 Putnam County permits chickens in single-family residential zoning districts. These include R-1, R-2, or RE, in which a single-family residence is on-site. You can have no less than 2 chickens and no more than 6 per acre. Roosters are prohibited. Chickens must be kept for personal use and not commercial purposes.
Your flock must be kept on your property at all times. They must be kept in a coop that is no larger than 150 square feet and is placed in accordance with building setbacks in your zoning district. For more information on the requirements for your zoning district, please contact Putnam County Planning & Development Services.
Does St. Johns County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep up to five chickens in residential areas with a special use permit. However, roosters are prohibited.
Chickens must be housed in a coop or enclosure located in the rear of your home, at least 15 feet from any property line.
Additional requirements may apply, so be sure to check with the St. Johns County Planning & Zoning Department for permitting and other regulations regarding backyard chickens.
Does St. Lucie County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, St. Lucie County even has a Backyard Chicken Program that you can register for to keep them. This permits backyard chickens in all occupied single-family residential properties in the unincorporated areas within the county. It allows you to have up to 5 chickens on RE-1, RE-2, RS-2, RS-3, and RS-4 zoning districts. This does not apply to the River Park community or and cities or towns within the county that enforce their own regulations regarding backyard chickens.
Does Santa Rosa County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
It seems as those its not permitted in residentially zoned districts in the unincorporated areas of the county as poultry farms are only classified as permitted agricultural uses and not residential uses. For clarification on this, you can contact Santa Rosa County Development Services. This does not mean that backyard chickens are entirely prohibited in the county. Cities and towns likely enforce their own regulations and may allow backyard chickens. Keep reading to find out what your city or town allows.
Does Sarasota County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, no more than 4 chickens are kept on residentially zoned properties. These residentially zoned districts include: RE-2, RE-3, and Residential Combination. For more information on backyard chicken keeping requirements in Sarasota County, contact their Code Enforcement Department.
Does Seminole County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Seminole County has a backyard chicken program that allows up to four chickens on an occupied single-family residential lot. To participate, you must complete a permit application, similar to a building permit, detailing the coop’s size, placement, setbacks, tie-down methods, and more. The permit fee is $75.00.
The program requires chickens to be kept in a coop or enclosure at least 10 feet from any rear or side property lines and 20 feet from neighboring residences. The coop must be predator-secure and provide at least 4 square feet per chicken. It cannot exceed 150 square feet in size or 8 feet in height.
Does Sumter County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Chickens are permitted in Rural Residential zoning districts, with a limit of up to 10 birds per acre. If you have more than 10 chickens, the coop must be at least 100 feet from any property lines. For questions, contact Planning & Zoning at 352-689-4400.
Does Suwannee County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
It is unclear what is allowed at this time since their animal ordinances do not mention chickens, poultry, or fowl. Additionally, there are no clearly outlined zoning districts or permitted uses specifying whether chickens can be kept on residential properties. The best course of action is to contact Suwannee County Planning & Zoning for clarification.
Does Taylor County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
It is unclear whether backyard chickens are permitted in Taylor County, Florida. Agricultural uses appear to be allowed in Rural Residential zones, but the specifics of what qualifies as an agricultural use are not clearly stated. To determine if backyard chickens fall under this category for Rural Residential properties, contact the Taylor County Planning & Zoning Department.
Does Union County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, keeping poultry is allowed in certain residential zoning districts, including Rural Residential (RR). To confirm whether backyard chickens are permitted in your specific zoning district and to understand the requirements for keeping them, please contact Union County Planning & Development.
Does Volusia County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, so long as you follow these rules for maintaining chickens in residentially zoned areas:
- You can have no more than 5 chickens
- Chickens must be kept for personal use only
- A conditional use permit must be obtained in order to keep them
- You must notify adjacent property owners of your intent to keep chickens
- Your property must be a ⅓ of an acre or larger
- Chickens must be contained in a coop
- That is 5 feet from and side or rear property line
- Must meet other accessory structure setback requirements
- Is no taller than 8 feet
- Has no more than 150 square feet
Does Wakulla County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Agricultural uses are permitted in RR-5 (Rural Residential) districts. However, chickens are not specifically listed as an agricultural use. To clarify what is allowed, contact the Wakulla County Planning & Development Department.
Does Walton County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
It is unclear whether backyard chickens are permitted at the county level, as the decision appears to be left to individual cities and towns within the county. First, check with your local planning or zoning officials to determine if chickens are allowed in residentially zoned areas. If no local regulations apply, contact the Walton County Planning & Development Department for further guidance.
Does Washington County, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Exact regulations and requirements for keeping backyard chickens are unclear. However, there are provisions in the land use code that suggest backyard chickens may be permitted. For instance, Residential Low (RL) districts list agriculture as a permitted use. Meanwhile, RM1, RM2, and RH districts do not specify whether chickens are allowed or prohibited.
To determine exactly what is permitted, please contact your local planning officials or the Washington County Planning Department.
Cities in Florida That Allow Chickens
Here are some of the backyard chicken laws in different cities in Florida. You can click on your city listed in the chart below to get taken directly to the requirements in your area!
Does Cape Coral, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, it is not lawful for anyone to keep, raise, maintain, or pasture a chicken on their property if it is not zoned for agricultural use.
Does Coral Springs, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Chickens are not allowed as pets, except in RS-1 zoning districts where specific requirements are met. However, since the list of permitted uses only includes horses, this may mean that chickens are not allowed in any district. For clarification, contact Coral Springs Community Development.
Does Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, backyard chickens are not permitted in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. To advocate for a change to this law, contact your district’s City Commissioner.
Does Gainesville, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, Gainesville permits you to keep up to 10 hens that are raised for personal use on a single-family residence property. For more information for other requirements on keeping chickens on your single family residential property, contact the Gainesville Planning & Development Department.
Does Hileah, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, chickens are only permitted in areas zoned for agricultural use. To advocate for this to change, reach out to the Planning & Zoning Board.
Does Hollywood, Florida, Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, Hollywood permits the keeping of chickens. You can contact the City Commission to advocate for this law to change.
Does Jacksonville, Florida Allow Backyard Chickens?
Jacksonville permits backyard chickens with a permit for certain zoning districts which include single-family dwellings. The current code allows up to 5 chickens and 5 additional chickens for each additional 21, 780 square feet over one acre of land.
Chickens must be kept in a coop or enclosure. Chicken coops in Jacksonville that are less than 15 feet in height, which most coops are, it must be at least 5 feet from any lot lines.
If you have any questions about this, please contact the Jacksonville Planning & Development Department.
Does Jacksonville Beach, Florida Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, single-family properties in RS-1, RS-2, and RS-3 zoning districts with at least 5,000 square feet of property are permitted to have up to 5 hens in their backyard. To keep hens, you must first obtain a permit, and to get this permit, you are required to take a Poultry Management Seminar offered by the Duval County Agricultural Extension Office. They can be contacted at 904-255-7450.
If you have any additional questions about these requirements or any that were not mentioned, please reach out to the Jacksonville Beach Planning & Development Department.
Does Lakeland, Florida Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, but you must follow specific requirements. You can keep chickens in a residential district within the city only if they are at least 50 feet from any occupied residence or place of abode. However, you may keep them at a shorter distance if you obtain written consent from at least three-fourths of the residents in the area and submit it to the city manager. Additionally, you cannot keep chickens if the noise, odor, or cleanliness of the coop creates an unsightly appearance.
Does Miami, Florida Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, but you must obtain a permit. You can have between 15 and 30 hens at a time, but roosters are prohibited. Chicken coops in Miami must be at least 100 feet from any dwelling, and the hens cannot roam freely.
Does Miramar, Florida Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you are permitted to keep chickens and roosters, but it must be on residential properties that are zoned as agricultural. For questions on this and your property’s zoning designation, contact Miramar’s Zoning Department.
Does Orlando, Florida Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, so long as you live in single-family home. Chickens are not permitted on duplex, triplex, townhome, or multifamily properties. They must be secured and cannot be allowed to run free. You can have no more than 4 chickens and they must be kept for personal use.
You must keep them secured at all times in a coop or fenced-in enclosure. The chicken coop must not be made of chicken wire, must be in the backyard, and should be 20 feet away from neighboring homes and 5 feet away from your home or any property lines. The coop and run combination must be less than 50 square feet.
To keep chickens in your backyard, you must complete a University of Florida Agricultural Extension Office Class that covers:
- Chicken Nutrition
- Chicken Breeds
- Biosecurity
- Egg Production
- Proper Coop Construction
The class costs $20 per household.
Does Palm Bay, Florida Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep up to four chickens on single-family lots in RE, RS-1, RS-2, RS-3, SF-1, SF-2, and SRE zoning districts. Only hens are allowed—roosters are strictly prohibited. Chickens must be kept in a coop or a fenced enclosure at all times.
Does Pembroke Pines, Florida Allow Backyard Chickens?
You can keep chickens but the coop, pen, or other fenced in structure in which they are kept in must be 100 feet from any lot line. You may keep up to 25 chickens. They also mention that chicken coops and enclosures should be 50 feet from lot lines. To clear up setback requirements or to answer any other questions you may have, contact Pembroke Pines Planning & Economic Development Department.
Does Port St. Lucie, Florida Allow Backyard Chickens?
While St. Lucie County has a backyard chicken program, the city of Port St. Lucie unfortunately does not allow them. You can contact the city council to request that they change their laws to follow suit with county-level regulations.
Does St. Petersburg, Florida Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you are permitted to keep chickens in the city of St. Petersburg. However, they must be kept in a coop or enclosed structure no larger than 130 square feet and no taller than 6 feet.
You are allowed a maximum of 10 chickens, regardless of your property size. Additionally, you must comply with side and rear setback requirements, and coops are not allowed in the front yard.
Does Tallahassee, Florida Allow Backyard Chickens?
Yes, you can keep chickens in your backyard with a special permit. To meet the requirements for this permit, you may only keep hens for personal use in a securely enclosed coop, set back at least 20 feet from neighboring dwellings. Additionally, you are allowed to keep one rooster along with the hens for flock sustainability.
The exact number of hens you can keep isn’t specified. For clarification on this, contact Tallahassee’s Zoning Department.
Does Tampa, Florida Allow Backyard Chickens?
It appears as though they are not permitted, but nothing is super clear. It’s best to contact the City Planning Department to find out what they allow.
Does West Palm Beach, Florida Allow Backyard Chickens?
No, the keeping of poultry is strictly prohibited within city limits.
Other FAQs About Keeping Backyard Chickens in Florida
What are the Rules for Raising Chickens in Florida for Eggs?
You may raise chickens for egg production, but there are a few rules you must follow. First, most areas don’t permit you to sell the eggs if you are on a residentially zoned property. So, you are only allowed to raise them for eggs for personal use. Secondly, many areas prohibit roosters which will make egg production difficult. It’s best to check your local zoning regulations to see what there requirements are for raising chickens for their eggs.
What Chicken Breeds Are Best Suited For the Florida Heat?
Breeds like Welsummers, Orpingtons, Australorps, Leghorns, Anconas, Minorcas, Plymouth Rocks, and Rhode Island Reds are all excellent choices for Florida’s climate. The traits that make them well-suited for the weather vary, but most of these breeds share characteristics such as a light body weight, large combs and wattles, active or foraging behaviors, origins in warm climates, or lighter feathers.
How To Keep Chickens Cool in Florida Heat?
One of the most important things to consider when keeping backyard chickens in Florida is how to keep them cool. The heat can be intense, so maintaining their internal temperature is crucial for their health and well-being. Here are some ways to help them stay cool:
Provide Plenty of Shade
- Keep them in a coop that offers shade throughout the day.
Ensure Constant Access to Cool Water
- Use multiple water dishes or an automatic waterer so they always have water available.
- Add ice cubes or frozen water bottles to keep the water cool.
- Place shallow pans of water for chickens to step in and cool off.
Improve Ventilation in the Coop
- Install windows, vents, or small fans to improve airflow and keep the coop cool.
- Make sure chickens have enough space and aren’t overcrowded.
- Raise the coop slightly off the ground for better air circulation.
Offer Cooling Treats
- Frozen fruits like watermelon, berries, or cucumbers provide heat relief.
- Veggies with high water content, like lettuce and zucchini, help with hydration.
Use Misting Systems or Sprinklers
- Set up a misting system or light sprinklers to help lower temperatures.
Can I Let My Chickens Free-Range in My Backyard?
In most cases, chickens must be kept in an enclosure, such as a coop or shed. However, some areas may allow them to be free-range in your backyard, provided your yard is fenced. If you choose to let your chickens roam freely, ensure they stay on your property and do not become a nuisance to your neighbors.
Need A Coop For Your Backyard Chickens in Florida?
Most areas in Florida that allow backyard chickens require them to be kept in a secure coop or enclosure. At Hen House Collection, we offer high-quality chicken coops designed with ventilation, easy cleaning, and climate control features to help you meet local regulations while keeping your flock comfortable in the Florida heat. Plus, thanks to our partnership with Smart Chicken Door, our coops include predator-proof features to keep your chickens safe.
Struggling to find the perfect coop with all the features you need? We’re happy to work with you to custom design a coop that fits your specific needs and provides the best setup for your flock.
New to backyard chickens? We’ve got you covered! Check out our helpful resources on coop cleaning, choosing the right size coop, and everything else you need to get started.
