Can I keep chickens in Lincoln, ND?
Yes, with conditions — Lincoln allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations. (5-02-05, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop rules | Chickens may only be kept with prior specific written permission from the City Council. Agricultural-zoned land is exempt from the prohibition. |
| Code section | 5-02-05 |
Backyard chickens are prohibited in Lincoln except with specific written City Council approval or on Agricultural-zoned land. No standard permit process exists; each case requires individual Council authorization per Ord. 2024-04.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Lincoln?
Yes, with conditions — Lincoln allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (5-02-05).
How many chickens can I keep in Lincoln?
It depends on your lot. Chickens require prior specific written City Council permission (§ 5-02-05, Ord. 2024-04). No hen count limit is set in the code; terms are at Council discretion. Agricultural zone is exempt.. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Lincoln?
Yes — Lincoln requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
What law covers backyard chickens in Lincoln?
5-02-05. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
5-02-05 — read the official code
“it shall be unlawful and a violation of this Code for any person to keep any animal or fowl in the City for a period of more than twenty-four (24) hours, unless such person shall have obtained prior specific written permission from the City Council for the keeping of such animal or fowl” source
“5-02-05. - Keeping of Animals and Fowl Prohibited. (Ord. No. 2024-04, 4-18-2024)” source
“unless such person shall have obtained prior specific written permission from the City Council for the keeping of such animal or fowl” 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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