Backyard Chickens in Franklin, Tennessee

What the Franklin Rules Say

Franklin regulates chickens and other domestic fowl under its animal husbandry and Unified Development Ordinance standards. The city’s animal husbandry page says permits are required and applies the rules to chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, and other domestic fowl.

Franklin’s poultry/domestic fowl standards limit chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese to 5 per acre, with a maximum of 12 total poultry/domestic fowl regardless of acreage. Roosters are limited to one per 5 acres.

The structure containing poultry/domestic fowl must be at least 100 feet from any residence on an adjoining parcel.

What This Means in Plain English

Franklin is more acreage-based than many urban hen ordinances. Small residential lots may not support backyard chickens under the spacing rules. If your property is large enough, the maximum is 12 birds, and roosters require substantial acreage.

Practical Considerations

Permit First

Franklin’s public animal husbandry page says permits are required. Contact Building and Neighborhood Services before buying birds.

Acreage

The 5-per-acre rule and 12-bird maximum matter, but the 100-foot structure setback may be the real limiting factor on smaller lots.

Roosters

Roosters are not an ordinary small-lot option. The rule limits them to one per 5 acres.

Getting Started

1. Confirm your acreage and zoning.
2. Contact Franklin Building and Neighborhood Services about the permit.
3. Measure 100 feet from adjoining residences before placing poultry housing.
4. Plan no more than 5 birds per acre and no more than 12 total.
5. Avoid roosters unless the property has at least 5 acres and the city confirms approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Franklin, TN?

Yes, where Franklin’s animal husbandry and zoning standards can be met and the required permit is obtained.

How many chickens can I have in Franklin?

Franklin limits poultry/domestic fowl to 5 per acre and no more than 12 total.

Are roosters allowed in Franklin?

Only on larger properties. Franklin limits roosters to one per 5 acres.