OverEZ Classic Medium Chicken Coop
Amish-built, made in USA. Houses up to 10 hens while staying compact enough for many suburban backyards.
Why it fits: Useful first-flock gear
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Compare on Amazon →Backyard Chickens in Richmond, Virginia
Chickens are legal in Richmond — here's exactly what the ordinance requires.
Quick legal answer
Are backyard chickens legal in Richmond, Virginia?
Yes — subject to local rules
- Hen limit
- Up to 6 hens
- Roosters
- Not allowed
- Permit
- Required — $60 annual application and renewal
- Setback
- Contact the Richmond Zoning Division for the setback that applies to the property before applying
- Zoning
- Coop and fenced pen must be at the rear of the property; chickens must remain in the enclosure
Last verified: July 2026
View Richmond 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 Richmond Rules Say
Richmond allows residents to keep up to six hens in residential areas with a chicken permit from Richmond Animal Care & Control. Roosters and English Gamecocks are prohibited.
The city’s official permit guidance says the application fee is $60 and the permit must be renewed annually. Applicants must submit a site plan and pass an on-site inspection before a permit is issued.
Coop, Pen, and Property Rules
Owners must provide a suitable coop and fenced pen at the rear of the property. Chickens must stay in the enclosure and may not free-range.
Richmond directs applicants to contact the Zoning Division for the yard setback that applies to their property before applying. Renters need written approval from the property owner.
Before You Apply
Confirm the setback with Richmond Zoning, prepare a site plan, and verify that the rear-yard enclosure can satisfy both zoning and Animal Care & Control review. Private covenants or lease restrictions may be more restrictive than the city permit.
Official Source
Matched next steps
Recommended Setup for Richmond's Rules
Practical options selected to fit the result above.
1/2-Inch Hardware Cloth
Predator proofingPredator-resistant mesh for runs, vents, and coop skirts. Better than chicken wire for raccoons, snakes, and loose dogs.
Why it fits: Predator proofing
Available on Amazon
Compare on Amazon →Galvanized Feed Storage Can
Pest controlRodent-resistant feed storage that helps prevent pests, odors, and nuisance complaints.
Why it fits: Pest control
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After checking the rules
Next Steps for Richmond Chicken Keepers
Verification Notice
This page was last verified against Richmond's municipal code in July 2026. Ordinances change — always confirm current rules with your local city clerk before purchasing birds or building a coop.
View Richmond Municipal Code ↗Get Backyard Chicken Updates for Virginia
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