Can I keep chickens in Independence, KY?
Yes, with conditions — Independence allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 6 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 25 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Ordinance No. 2015-0-03 (Harboring and Raising of Fowl), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop setback | 25 ft |
| Coop rules | Covered, secure, predator-proof enclosure at least 2 ft above ground; at least 25 ft from the nearest neighbor's property line and no closer than 4 ft to the owner's residence; at least 3 sq ft per bird; kept sanitary. Permit required on lots under 1 acre. |
| Code section | Ordinance No. 2015-0-03 (Harboring and Raising of Fowl) |
Independence allows up to six hens (no roosters) for personal use, but on parcels under one acre the owner must first apply for and obtain a fowl permit from the City. Enclosures must sit at least 25 ft from a neighbor's property line and no closer than 4 ft to the owner's home, with at least 3 sq ft per bird. The permit is valid one year and renewable.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Independence?
Yes, with conditions — Independence allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Ordinance No. 2015-0-03 (Harboring and Raising of Fowl)).
How many chickens can I keep in Independence?
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 Independence?
Yes — Independence requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
Are roosters allowed in Independence?
No — roosters are prohibited in Independence.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Independence?
25 feet minimum. Covered, secure, predator-proof enclosure at least 2 ft above ground; at least 25 ft from the nearest neighbor's property line and no closer than 4 ft to the owner's residence; at least 3 sq ft per bird; kept sanitary. Permit required on lots under 1 acre.
What law covers backyard chickens in Independence?
Ordinance No. 2015-0-03 (Harboring and Raising of Fowl). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Ordinance No. 2015-0-03 (Harboring and Raising of Fowl) — read the official code
“Any individual or entity of any type desiring to maintain fowl on their real estate located within the city consisting of less than 1 acre must first apply for and obtain a permit from the City.” source
“No more than six fowl permitted.” source
“No roosters are permitted.” source
“Enclosures must be situated at least twenty-five (25) feet from the nearest neighbor's property line and no closer than four (4) feet to the owner's residence.” source
Last verified June 14, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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