Can I keep chickens in Marietta, GA?
Yes, with conditions — Marietta allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 4 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 20 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Marietta Zoning Ordinance Div. 708 (R-1 to R-4 accessory uses), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 4 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop setback | 20 ft |
| Minimum lot size | 15,000 sq ft |
| Home slaughter | Not allowed |
| Coop rules | Coop max 8 ft tall; coop plus run max 100 sq ft; fenced rear-yard area 20 ft from any property line and 10 ft from the principal structure; minimum 25 sq ft fenced area per chicken; scaled site sketch and occupied residence required. |
| Code section | Marietta Zoning Ordinance Div. 708 (R-1 to R-4 accessory uses) |
Marietta allows up to 4 chickens (no roosters) only in R-1 through R-4 districts on lots of at least 15,000 sq ft with an occupied residence. A chicken application with a coop building permit is required, and chickens may be kept only as pets or for eggs - not slaughter. Verified against current code (June 2026).
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Marietta?
Yes, with conditions — Marietta allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Marietta Zoning Ordinance Div. 708 (R-1 to R-4 accessory uses)).
How many chickens can I keep in Marietta?
Up to 4 hens. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Marietta?
Yes — Marietta requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
Are roosters allowed in Marietta?
No — roosters are prohibited in Marietta.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Marietta?
20 feet minimum. Coop max 8 ft tall; coop plus run max 100 sq ft; fenced rear-yard area 20 ft from any property line and 10 ft from the principal structure; minimum 25 sq ft fenced area per chicken; scaled site sketch and occupied residence required.
Is there a minimum lot size for chickens in Marietta?
Yes — 15,000 sq ft.
Can I slaughter chickens at home in Marietta?
No — slaughter is not permitted under Marietta's code.
What law covers backyard chickens in Marietta?
Marietta Zoning Ordinance Div. 708 (R-1 to R-4 accessory uses). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Marietta Zoning Ordinance Div. 708 (R-1 to R-4 accessory uses) — read the official code
“The maximum number of chickens allowed on any property shall not exceed 4.” source
“The minimum lot size for the keeping of chickens is 15,000 square feet.” source
Last verified June 13, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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