Can I keep chickens in Rochester, MN?
Yes, with conditions — Rochester allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 3 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 25 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Rochester Code of Ordinances Chapter 3-4, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 3 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop setback | 25 ft |
| Coop rules | Permit application must include a scaled diagram of coop and run location and be approved by the City Council. Coop and run must be at least 25 ft from any residential structure on other premises. Permit valid until December 31 of the following year. |
| Code section | Rochester Code of Ordinances Chapter 3-4 |
Rochester allows up to 3 hens per premises with a City Council-approved permit, or up to 12 hens for documented educational/instructional activity. Roosters are not permitted. Applications require a scaled site diagram; permits are valid until December 31 of the following year.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Rochester?
Yes, with conditions — Rochester allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Rochester Code of Ordinances Chapter 3-4).
How many chickens can I keep in Rochester?
Up to 3 hens. Base allowance 3 hens with permit; up to 12 only for documented educational/instructional use. Council approval required. No roosters.. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Rochester?
Yes — Rochester requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
Are roosters allowed in Rochester?
No — roosters are prohibited in Rochester.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Rochester?
25 feet minimum. Permit application must include a scaled diagram of coop and run location and be approved by the City Council. Coop and run must be at least 25 ft from any residential structure on other premises. Permit valid until December 31 of the following year.
What law covers backyard chickens in Rochester?
Rochester Code of Ordinances Chapter 3-4. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Rochester Code of Ordinances Chapter 3-4 — read the official code
“With a permit, up to 3 hens are allowed on any premise. A permit for up to 12 hens may be issued if the applicant is involved in educational or instructional activity... Roosters are not permitted... The City Council must approve the application before a permit is issued. Issued permits will be valid until December 31 of the following year.” source
Last verified June 13, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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