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Compare on Amazon →Backyard Chickens in Clarksville, Tennessee
Chickens are legal in Clarksville — here's exactly what the ordinance requires.
Quick legal answer
Are backyard chickens legal in Clarksville, Tennessee?
Yes — subject to local rules
- Hen limit
- Up to 8 hens
- Roosters
- Not allowed
- Permit
- Required — $50 one-time application fee listed in reviewed city code materials
- Setback
- Coop and enclosure must be in the rear yard and 10 ft from rear and side property lines
- Zoning
- Domesticated hens are allowed in specified residential zoning districts on lots of at least 9,000 sq ft; roosters, breeding, and on-site slaughter are prohibited
Last verified: May 2026
View Clarksville ordinance ↗Ordinances and zoning rules change. Confirm the current requirements with your municipality before buying birds or building a coop.
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What the Clarksville Rules Say
Clarksville City Code Section 3-109 allows domesticated hens in the E-1, R-1, R-1A, R-2, and R-2A residential zoning districts, subject to restrictions.
The code prohibits roosters, breeding of permitted hens, and on-site slaughter. Other poultry such as ducks, geese, quail, pigeons, and turkeys are not considered domesticated hens under the rule.
The lot area for keeping domesticated hens must be at least 9,000 square feet, and a maximum of 8 domesticated chicken hens may be permitted on a parcel or tract.
What This Means in Plain English
Clarksville allows backyard hens, but only on qualifying residential lots with a permit. Plan for hens only, a minimum 9,000-square-foot lot, and no more than 8 hens.
Practical Considerations
Permit and Landlord Approval
If the applicant rents the property, Clarksville requires proof that the property owner knows about and approves the hens.
Coop and Enclosure
The coop must provide at least 2 square feet per chicken and cannot exceed 50 square feet. The enclosure must provide at least 6 square feet per bird and cannot exceed 400 square feet total.
Setbacks
The coop and enclosure must be in the rear of the property and at least 10 feet from rear and side property lines.
Getting Started
- Confirm your zoning district.
- Verify your lot is at least 9,000 square feet.
- Apply for the domesticated hen permit.
- Plan for 8 hens or fewer.
- Do not keep roosters, breed hens, or slaughter birds on site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have chickens in Clarksville, TN?
Yes, if your property qualifies and the city issues the required permit.
How many hens can I have in Clarksville?
Clarksville allows up to 8 domesticated chicken hens on qualifying parcels.
Are roosters allowed in Clarksville?
No. Clarksville prohibits roosters.
Matched next steps
Recommended Setup for Clarksville's Rules
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After checking the rules
Next Steps for Clarksville Chicken Keepers
Verification Notice
This page was last verified against Clarksville'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 Clarksville Municipal Code ↗Get Backyard Chicken Updates for Tennessee
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