Can I keep chickens in Wilmington, DE?
No — Wilmington does not allow backyard chickens in residential zones. (Chapter 3 Animals, §3-14(b), verified June 2026)
✗ Not allowed
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | No |
|---|---|
| Code section | Chapter 3 Animals, §3-14(b) |
Chickens are prohibited in Wilmington under §3-14(b), which bans keeping livestock, fowl, or poultry within city limits. No exceptions apply in residential zones.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Wilmington?
No — chickens are not allowed in Wilmington (Chapter 3 Animals, §3-14(b)).
What law covers backyard chickens in Wilmington?
Chapter 3 Animals, §3-14(b). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Chapter 3 Animals, §3-14(b) — read the official code
“It shall be unlawful to own, keep, or harbor livestock, fowl, or poultry within the City of Wilmington.” 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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