Backyard Chickens in Albany, New York

What the Albany Ordinance Says

Albany generally prohibits farm animals or fowl unless a code exception applies. Section 115-32 creates the main hen exception.

The owner or primary occupant of a dwelling may be permitted to keep up to six hens on the lot containing the dwelling. The property must have 200 square feet of total lot area, exclusive of buildings, for two hens, plus 100 additional square feet for every additional hen up to the six-hen maximum.

Roosters are prohibited. Hens must have a clean, covered, well-ventilated enclosure that is secure from predators and cleaned regularly. They must be kept in the covered enclosure or within a fenced area at all times.

The enclosure cannot be closer than 25 feet to an occupied residential dwelling on an adjoining lot unless written permission is submitted. Coops and enclosures are capped at 150 square feet total for up to six hens, and they cannot exceed seven feet in height. A City Clerk license is required, with a $25 application fee and annual renewal process.

What This Means in Plain English

Albany allows backyard hens, but only after a license. The lot-area formula, 25-foot neighbor-dwelling setback, and citywide license cap make this a city where you should confirm availability before building.

Because only 80 licenses may be in effect at one time under the reviewed code, approval may depend on the current license count.

Practical Considerations

License Availability

Albany’s code caps the number of active hen licenses. Check with the City Clerk before buying equipment.

Setback Flexibility

The 25-foot adjoining-dwelling setback can be reduced only with written permission from the adjoining dwelling owner.

Coop Size

Plan a compact coop and run. The total coop/enclosure area is capped at 150 square feet for up to six hens.

Getting Started

1. Confirm license availability with the City Clerk.
2. Measure available lot area and the 25-foot adjoining-dwelling setback.
3. Prepare a scaled site drawing.
4. Get adjoining-owner written permission if your enclosure is closer than 25 feet.
5. Apply before buying hens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Albany, NY?

Yes. Albany allows up to six hens with a City Clerk license.

Are roosters allowed in Albany?

No. Albany prohibits roosters.

Does Albany require a chicken permit?

Yes. Albany requires a hen license from the City Clerk.