Backyard Chickens in Buffalo, New York

What the Buffalo Ordinance Says

Buffalo generally prohibits chickens and other fowl in residential and commercial districts unless the household follows the chicken-hen exception in Sections 341-11.1 through 341-11.4.

Under that exception, Buffalo allows domesticated chicken hens in residential districts after the resident receives a license from the City Clerk. The limit is five chicken hens per single-family or multifamily dwelling. Roosters are not allowed.

The license requires an annual fee of $25 per hen, up to a maximum total annual fee of $125. The application asks for the number of hens, coop and enclosure details, a scaled drawing, waste-management information, landlord consent when applicable, tenant consent for multifamily buildings, and adjacent-resident consent.

Coops or cages must be at least 20 feet from any door or window of a dwelling, school, church, or other occupied structure other than the applicant’s own dwelling. They cannot be in front yards or side street yards. The code also sets side and rear lot-line rules, and hens must be kept within both a coop and a fenced outdoor enclosure.

What This Means in Plain English

Buffalo allows a small backyard hen flock, but it is paperwork-heavy. The license, fee, site drawing, neighbor consent, and animal-control inspection all matter.

This is not a “build first, ask later” city. Measure the proposed coop location and gather consents before buying hens.

Practical Considerations

Neighbor Consent

Buffalo’s adjacent-resident consent requirement can be the deciding factor. Talk with neighbors early and explain the number of hens, coop location, and cleaning plan.

Coop Placement

The 20-foot occupied-structure rule and lot-line rules can make narrow city lots difficult. Sketch the yard before choosing a coop.

No Roosters

Buffalo allows hens only. Roosters are prohibited.

Getting Started

1. Confirm your property is inside Buffalo city limits.
2. Measure the proposed rear-yard coop location.
3. Prepare a scaled drawing and waste-management plan.
4. Gather landlord, tenant, or adjacent-resident consent if required.
5. Apply for the chicken-hen license before buying hens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Buffalo, NY?

Yes. Buffalo allows up to five chicken hens with a city license.

Are roosters allowed in Buffalo?

No. Buffalo prohibits roosters under its chicken-hen exception.

Does Buffalo require a chicken permit or license?

Yes. Buffalo requires a license from the City Clerk and an annual fee of $25 per hen, up to $125.