Can I keep chickens in Annapolis, MD?
Yes — Annapolis allows backyard chickens, up to 5 hens with a required permit/registration. Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 5 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Annapolis City Code § 8.04.010, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Yes |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 5 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes ($100) |
| Coop setback | 5 ft |
| Coop rules | Coop must be at least 5 feet from property line; all coops must comply with building codes; written neighbor approval required from all adjacent neighbors before permit submission. |
| Code section | Annapolis City Code § 8.04.010 |
Annapolis allows up to 5 female chickens at any residence regardless of lot size. A $100 permit and inspection fee is required, along with written approval from all adjacent neighbors. Roosters are not permitted. The program is administered under City Code § 8.04.010.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Annapolis?
Yes — chickens are allowed in Annapolis (Annapolis City Code § 8.04.010).
How many chickens can I keep in Annapolis?
Up to 5 hens.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Annapolis?
Yes — Annapolis requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens (fee: $100).
Are roosters allowed in Annapolis?
No — roosters are prohibited in Annapolis.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Annapolis?
5 feet minimum. Coop must be at least 5 feet from property line; all coops must comply with building codes; written neighbor approval required from all adjacent neighbors before permit submission.
What law covers backyard chickens in Annapolis?
Annapolis City Code § 8.04.010. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Annapolis City Code § 8.04.010 — read the official code
“Sustainable Annapolis is taking part in the legislation passed into the Annapolis City Code Chapter 8.04.010 - Maintaining Animals. You can visit the page for Licenses and Permits to learn more.” source
“In Annapolis, you have to get neighbor approval and pay $100 for the inspection and permit fee. Their municipal code says you can have up to 5 chickens regardless of lot size.” 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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