Can I keep chickens in Milton, DE?
Yes, with conditions — Milton allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations. (Chapter 63 Animals, §63-4, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Permit required | Yes |
| Minimum lot size | 435,600 sq ft |
| Coop rules | Special permit required from Town Council; land must exceed 10 acres and be used for grazing purposes |
| Code section | Chapter 63 Animals, §63-4 |
Chickens are generally prohibited in Milton under §63-4. A special permit exception exists only for properties exceeding 10 acres (435,600 sq ft) used for grazing. This effectively prohibits chickens on all standard residential lots. As of 2023, the town was reportedly considering allowing backyard chickens but the current code still prohibits them.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Milton?
Yes, with conditions — Milton allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Chapter 63 Animals, §63-4).
How many chickens can I keep in Milton?
It depends on your lot. Prohibited generally; exception for 10+ acre grazing operations only with special Town Council permit (§63-4.B). Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Milton?
Yes — Milton requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
Is there a minimum lot size for chickens in Milton?
Yes — 435,600 sq ft.
What law covers backyard chickens in Milton?
Chapter 63 Animals, §63-4. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Chapter 63 Animals, §63-4 — read the official code
“It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to keep or permit to be kept on any property owned or leased by him within the corporate limits of the Town of Milton one or more than one cow, horse, swine, sheep, goat, poultry, or fowl. [Exception for 10+ acre grazing operations with special permit per §63-4.B]” source
Last verified June 15, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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