Can I keep chickens in Asheville, NC?
Yes — Asheville allows backyard chickens, up to 7 hens with a required permit/registration. Coops must be at least 50 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Article III, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Yes |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 7 |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop setback | 50 ft |
| Coop rules | Permit required. Cages or pens must be at least 10 feet from outer lot limits, unless located at least 50 feet from nearest household occupied by persons other than owner/keeper. Fully enclosed coop structure. |
| Code section | Article III |
Asheville allows up to 7 hens with a required animal permit (annual license fee applies). Fowl must be kept in fully enclosed coops.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Asheville?
Yes — chickens are allowed in Asheville (Article III).
How many chickens can I keep in Asheville?
Up to 7 hens.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Asheville?
Yes — Asheville requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Asheville?
50 feet minimum. Permit required. Cages or pens must be at least 10 feet from outer lot limits, unless located at least 50 feet from nearest household occupied by persons other than owner/keeper. Fully enclosed coop structure.
What law covers backyard chickens in Asheville?
Article III. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Article III — read the official code
“A permit is also required by all residents wishing to keep bees, fowl (chickens) or livestock” source
Last verified June 12, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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