Can I keep chickens in Joliet, IL?
No — Joliet does not allow backyard chickens in residential zones. (Ch. 6 (Animals and Fowl); Zoning Ordinance 47-3.9(c), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | No |
|---|---|
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Code section | Ch. 6 (Animals and Fowl); Zoning Ordinance 47-3.9(c) |
Joliet prohibits keeping chickens on standard residential lots. The zoning ordinance defines a farm as a contiguous parcel of 5 or more acres under 47-3.9(c), and Chapter 6 restricts farm animals to properties meeting that definition. Most residential lots do not qualify.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Joliet?
No — chickens are not allowed in Joliet (Ch. 6 (Animals and Fowl); Zoning Ordinance 47-3.9(c)).
Are roosters allowed in Joliet?
No — roosters are prohibited in Joliet.
What law covers backyard chickens in Joliet?
Ch. 6 (Animals and Fowl); Zoning Ordinance 47-3.9(c). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Ch. 6 (Animals and Fowl); Zoning Ordinance 47-3.9(c) — read the official code
“According to Chapter 6 Section 10: No farm animals unless your property meets the definition of a farm. Farm definition 47-3.9(c): requires contiguous parcel of 5 or more acres.” source
“Per current laws, chickens are considered farm animals and are not permitted in residential areas.” 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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