Can I have chickens in Winston-Salem, North Carolina?

Yes. Backyard chickens are allowed in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, but local limits, coop placement rules, nuisance rules, and any HOA restrictions still apply.

How many hens can I have in Winston-Salem?

Winston-Salem allows up to 5 hens under the rules reviewed for this page.

Do I need a permit for chickens in Winston-Salem?

The reviewed rules do not list a backyard chicken permit requirement for Winston-Salem. Always confirm with the city before buying birds or building a coop.

Chicken Laws › North Carolina › Winston-Salem

Backyard Chickens in Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Q: Are roosters allowed in Winston-Salem?

No. Roosters are not allowed for ordinary backyard chicken keeping in Winston-Salem.

Chickens are legal in Winston-Salem — here's exactly what the ordinance requires.

Winston-Salem Chicken Laws — Quick Reference

Chickens allowed? Yes

Max hens allowed 5 hens

Roosters allowed? No

Permit required? No

Coop setback

Coops and runs must be in the back yard and at least 20 ft from any adjoining property line

Coop location

Up to 5 hens or other fowl; no roosters; run must be enclosed and coop must be inside the run

Municipal code View ordinance ↗

Last verified May 2026

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What the Winston-Salem Rules Say

Winston-Salem allows city residents to keep chickens and other fowl. The city’s own summary says residents may keep up to five hens or other fowl, but no roosters.

Coops and runs must be in the backyard and at least 20 feet from any adjoining property line. Runs must be enclosed, at least four feet high, and provide 10 square feet per chicken. Chicken coops must be inside the run, provide at least three square feet per chicken, and be at least two feet high per level.

The city also has detailed manure and feed handling requirements, including watertight and fly-proof storage and frequent emptying.

What This Means in Plain English

Winston-Salem is a straightforward small-flock city: five hens, no roosters, backyard coop and run, with clear spacing and sanitation rules.

Getting Started

Plan for no more than five hens.
Place the coop and run in the backyard.
Keep the setup at least 20 feet from adjoining property lines.
Build an enclosed run at least four feet high.
Store manure and uneaten feed as required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Winston-Salem, NC?

Yes. Winston-Salem allows up to five hens or other fowl.

Are roosters allowed in Winston-Salem?

No. Roosters are not allowed.

Recommended Setup for Winston-Salem's Rules

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1/2-Inch Hardware Cloth

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Predator-resistant mesh for runs, vents, and coop skirts. Better than chicken wire for raccoons, snakes, and loose dogs.

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Farm Innovators HB-60P Heated Waterer

Winter essential

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Galvanized Feed Storage Can

Pest control

Rodent-resistant feed storage that helps prevent pests, odors, and nuisance complaints.

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Verification Notice

This page was last verified against Winston-Salem's municipal code in May 2026. Ordinances change — always confirm current rules with your local city clerk before purchasing birds or building a coop.

View Winston-Salem Municipal Code ↗

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