Backyard Chickens in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Chickens are currently not permitted in Philadelphia. Here's what the law says and what may change.
Philadelphia Chicken Laws — Quick Reference
Farm animals generally limited to listed exceptions, including parcels of 3 or more acres
Typical residential backyard chickens are effectively prohibited unless a specific code exception applies
What the Philadelphia Code Says
Philadelphia regulates farm animals under Section 10-112, Keeping Farm Animals. The code says no person shall keep a farm animal anywhere except in specific listed situations such as a licensed slaughterhouse, zoological park, veterinary hospital or clinic, animal shelter, circus or licensed entertainment venue, educational or scientific facility, or on a parcel of real property of three or more acres, except for pigs.
The enacted legislation defining the restriction identifies farm animals to include chickens, geese, ducks, turkeys, goats, sheep, pigs, cows, or other farm animals when they present a nuisance due to smell or noise.
What This Means in Plain English
For ordinary residential lots in Philadelphia, backyard chickens are effectively not allowed. The three-acre exception exists, but most city homeowners do not have parcels that large.
Because typical backyard hens are not broadly permitted, this page treats Philadelphia as a prohibited city for normal residential chicken keeping.
Practical Considerations
Do Not Buy a Coop First
If you live on a standard Philadelphia residential lot, do not buy hens or a coop assuming small backyard flocks are allowed.
Watch for Law Changes
Philadelphia has had periodic proposals and advocacy around backyard hens. Verify current code before making plans.
Nearby Municipalities Differ
Suburbs and townships around Philadelphia may have very different rules, so check your exact municipality rather than relying on the Philadelphia page.
Getting Started
- Confirm whether your property is within Philadelphia city limits.
- Review Section 10-112 directly.
- If you believe a listed exception applies, confirm with the city before buying birds.
- If you live outside Philadelphia, check your exact borough or township.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have chickens in Philadelphia, PA?
Not on a typical residential lot. Philadelphia generally prohibits farm animals except in listed situations, including parcels of three or more acres.
Are roosters allowed in Philadelphia?
No for ordinary residential backyard purposes. The farm animal restriction makes normal backyard chicken keeping effectively prohibited.
Is there a backyard chicken permit in Philadelphia?
The reviewed city code does not provide a simple backyard chicken permit for standard residential lots.
Verification Notice
This page was last verified against Philadelphia'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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