Can I keep chickens in Dunwoody, GA?
Yes, with conditions — Dunwoody allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 6 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 35 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Dunwoody Code Sec. 27-176, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop setback | 35 ft |
| Minimum lot size | 10,000 sq ft |
| Home slaughter | Not allowed |
| Coop rules | Coops/runs in rear yard only; 35 ft from rear line, 15 ft from side lines, 20 ft from corner side lot lines; coop max 6 ft tall and 40 sq ft with 2 sq ft per bird; covered run with 5 sq ft per bird; total coop plus run max 100 sq ft; predator-proof. |
| Code section | Dunwoody Code Sec. 27-176 |
Dunwoody allows up to 6 hens (females only - roosters, crowing hens and other fowl prohibited) in single-family districts on lots of at least 10,000 sq ft, after zoning approval via an application and site plan. On-premises slaughter and sales are banned. Verified against current code (June 2026).
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Dunwoody?
Yes, with conditions — Dunwoody allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Dunwoody Code Sec. 27-176).
How many chickens can I keep in Dunwoody?
Up to 6 hens. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Dunwoody?
Yes — Dunwoody requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
Are roosters allowed in Dunwoody?
No — roosters are prohibited in Dunwoody.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Dunwoody?
35 feet minimum. Coops/runs in rear yard only; 35 ft from rear line, 15 ft from side lines, 20 ft from corner side lot lines; coop max 6 ft tall and 40 sq ft with 2 sq ft per bird; covered run with 5 sq ft per bird; total coop plus run max 100 sq ft; predator-proof.
Is there a minimum lot size for chickens in Dunwoody?
Yes — 10,000 sq ft.
Can I slaughter chickens at home in Dunwoody?
No — slaughter is not permitted under Dunwoody's code.
What law covers backyard chickens in Dunwoody?
Dunwoody Code Sec. 27-176. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Dunwoody Code Sec. 27-176 — read the official code
“No more than six chickens shall be kept on any lot in the City of Dunwoody.” source
“No chickens may be kept on lots under 10,000 square feet.” source
Last verified June 13, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
Reach people actively researching backyard chickens in their city. Founding sponsor slots now open.
Apply to become a sponsor →