Can I keep chickens in Bowie, MD?
Yes, with conditions — Bowie allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations. Roosters are prohibited. (Prince George's County Zoning Ordinance § 27-441, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop rules | Governed by Prince George's County Zoning Ordinance. Agricultural zones (R-O-S, R-A, R-E) permitted by right. Standard residential lots (R-80, R-55, R-R) at 20,000 sq ft or less require a Special Permit from the County Planning Board. |
| Code section | Prince George's County Zoning Ordinance § 27-441 |
Bowie has no independent chicken ordinance and defers entirely to Prince George's County Zoning Ordinance. Chickens are permitted by right on large agricultural-zoned lots and require a Special Permit for standard residential lots at 20,000 sq ft or under. Roosters are not permitted in residential areas.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Bowie?
Yes, with conditions — Bowie allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Prince George's County Zoning Ordinance § 27-441).
How many chickens can I keep in Bowie?
It depends on your lot. No hen limit specified in county ordinance; agricultural zones permitted by right; standard residential lots require Special Exception from Planning Board. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Bowie?
Yes — Bowie requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
Are roosters allowed in Bowie?
No — roosters are prohibited in Bowie.
What law covers backyard chickens in Bowie?
Prince George's County Zoning Ordinance § 27-441. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Prince George's County Zoning Ordinance § 27-441 — read the official code
“The Prince George's County Zoning Ordinance, Section 27-441, restricts the keeping of chickens, poultry and other animals not customarily household pets on residential lots. Other than for agriculture use, these animals are generally prohibited ... A Special Permit from the County Planning Board is required for lots zoned R-80, R-55, and R-R if the lot is 20,000 square feet or less ... no roosters will be 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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