Backyard Chickens in Yonkers, New York
Chickens are currently not permitted in Yonkers. Here's what the law says and what may change.
Yonkers Chicken Laws — Quick Reference
Poultry and fowl are generally prohibited except for listed non-backyard exceptions
Ordinary residential backyard chickens are not allowed under the reviewed poultry-or-birds rule
What the Yonkers Code Says
Yonkers regulates poultry and other birds in Chapter 65, Section 65-23. The section says no person may keep, cause, or allow poultry, fowl, or other birds to be kept on or about any premises or property except as provided in the listed exceptions.
The listed exceptions cover live poultry kept for sale in a live poultry market, certain small birds sold at mercantile establishments, and similar small birds kept as domestic pets when they do not create a health nuisance.
The reviewed exceptions do not create a normal backyard chicken allowance for residential hen flocks.
What This Means in Plain English
For ordinary residential backyard chicken keeping, Yonkers should be treated as a no-chickens city. Do not buy hens or build a coop unless the city confirms that a specific exception applies to your situation.
The exceptions are not written like a backyard-hen permit program. They are aimed at poultry markets and small pet birds such as lovebirds, canaries, and parakeets.
Practical Considerations
Check Before You Spend Money
Yonkers is not a good place to assume hens are allowed. Contact the city before buying birds, a prefab coop, or fencing.
Nearby Cities Differ
Other New York municipalities have different rules. Do not rely on a nearby city’s chicken policy if your property is inside Yonkers.
Watch for Local Changes
Backyard-chicken rules can change after local advocacy. Recheck the municipal code before making plans.
Getting Started
- Confirm your property is within Yonkers city limits.
- Review Section 65-23 directly.
- Contact the city if you believe an exception applies.
- Do not buy birds or a coop for ordinary backyard use unless the city confirms it is legal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have chickens in Yonkers, NY?
No. For ordinary residential backyard purposes, Yonkers does not allow chickens under the reviewed code.
Are roosters allowed in Yonkers?
No. Ordinary backyard chickens are not allowed, so roosters are not allowed for residential backyard use.
Is there a backyard chicken permit in Yonkers?
The reviewed code does not provide a standard backyard chicken permit for residential hen keeping.
Verification Notice
This page was last verified against Yonkers's municipal code in May 2026. Ordinances change — always confirm current rules with your local city clerk before purchasing birds or building a coop.
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