Can I keep chickens in Westbrook, ME?
Yes, with conditions — Westbrook allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 6 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited. (Ch. 110, Art. IV (Fowl and Poultry), § 110-50 — amended May 4, 2026, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Minimum lot size | 10,000 sq ft |
| Home slaughter | Not allowed |
| Coop rules | Coop in side or rear yard (not front yard); coop under 5 ft height does not require building permit; enclosure meets base zone setback requirements; coop fully enclosed or with closable doors; fencing confines fowl; chain-link fencing prohibited in residential growth areas; vegetative screening required when non-solid fencing used; manure in covered containers; outside slaughter prohibited except in Rural District. |
| Code section | Ch. 110, Art. IV (Fowl and Poultry), § 110-50 — amended May 4, 2026 |
Westbrook amended its Fowl and Poultry ordinance effective May 4, 2026, setting a flat maximum of 6 fowl or poultry on standard residential lots (12 in the Rural District or on residential lots of 5+ acres). Roosters are now explicitly prohibited. No permit is required. The minimum lot size to keep poultry is 10,000 sqft. Outside slaughter is prohibited except in the Rural District.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Westbrook?
Yes, with conditions — Westbrook allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Ch. 110, Art. IV (Fowl and Poultry), § 110-50 — amended May 4, 2026).
How many chickens can I keep in Westbrook?
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 Westbrook?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Westbrook.
Are roosters allowed in Westbrook?
No — roosters are prohibited in Westbrook.
Is there a minimum lot size for chickens in Westbrook?
Yes — 10,000 sq ft.
Can I slaughter chickens at home in Westbrook?
No — slaughter is not permitted under Westbrook's code.
What law covers backyard chickens in Westbrook?
Ch. 110, Art. IV (Fowl and Poultry), § 110-50 — amended May 4, 2026. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Ch. 110, Art. IV (Fowl and Poultry), § 110-50 — amended May 4, 2026 — read the official code
“Except in the Rural District, enclosures shall be located in the side or rear yard. A coop that is less than 5 feet in height does not require a building permit from Code Enforcement.” source
“The maximum number of fowl or poultry permitted on a residential lot, or in a yard that is shown as a limited common element on an approved residential condominium plat, is 6 except for in the Rural District and on residential lots of 5 or more acres where it is 12. Male Chickens (Roosters) are prohibited. Except in the Rural District, outside slaughtering of fowl or poultry is prohibited.” 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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