Can I keep chickens in Smyrna, DE?
Yes, with conditions — Smyrna allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 5 hens where permitted). (Chapter 14 Animals, §14-5(b)(4) and §14-6, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 5 |
| Minimum lot size | 174,240 sq ft |
| Coop rules | 4+ acre lot required; max 5 total animals per §14-6 |
| Code section | Chapter 14 Animals, §14-5(b)(4) and §14-6 |
Chickens are allowed in Smyrna only on lots of 4 or more acres (174,240 sq ft minimum). Section 14-5(b)(4) requires a minimum 4-acre lot for keeping farm animals including chickens. Section 14-6 limits total animals to 5. Most Smyrna residential lots fall well below this threshold.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Smyrna?
Yes, with conditions — Smyrna allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Chapter 14 Animals, §14-5(b)(4) and §14-6).
How many chickens can I keep in Smyrna?
Up to 5 hens. Allowed only on lots of 4+ acres (174,240 sq ft min); max 5 total animals per §14-6. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Is there a minimum lot size for chickens in Smyrna?
Yes — 174,240 sq ft.
What law covers backyard chickens in Smyrna?
Chapter 14 Animals, §14-5(b)(4) and §14-6. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Chapter 14 Animals, §14-5(b)(4) and §14-6 — read the official code
“§14-5(b)(4): Keeping of farm animals including poultry requires minimum 4-acre lot. §14-6: Maximum 5 total animals permitted.” 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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