Can I keep chickens in Manchester, NH?
Yes, with conditions — Manchester allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 6 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 20 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Zoning Ordinance § 8.30 (The Keeping of Domesticated Chickens), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Coop setback | 20 ft |
| Minimum lot size | 21,780 sq ft |
| Home slaughter | Not allowed |
| Coop rules | Coop and run must be in side or rear yard, minimum 20 ft from all property lines. Personal use only; no commercial activity or egg sales. |
| Code section | Zoning Ordinance § 8.30 (The Keeping of Domesticated Chickens) |
Manchester allows up to 6 hens (no roosters) on lots of at least half an acre in residential zones R-S, R-1A, R-1B, R-2, R-SM, and R-3. Coops and runs must be set back at least 20 feet from all property lines and located in side or rear yards. No permit is required and no commercial use of chickens is permitted.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Manchester?
Yes, with conditions — Manchester allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Zoning Ordinance § 8.30 (The Keeping of Domesticated Chickens)).
How many chickens can I keep in Manchester?
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 Manchester?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Manchester.
Are roosters allowed in Manchester?
No — roosters are prohibited in Manchester.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Manchester?
20 feet minimum. Coop and run must be in side or rear yard, minimum 20 ft from all property lines. Personal use only; no commercial activity or egg sales.
Is there a minimum lot size for chickens in Manchester?
Yes — 21,780 sq ft.
Can I slaughter chickens at home in Manchester?
No — slaughter is not permitted under Manchester's code.
What law covers backyard chickens in Manchester?
Zoning Ordinance § 8.30 (The Keeping of Domesticated Chickens). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Zoning Ordinance § 8.30 (The Keeping of Domesticated Chickens) — read the official code
“Domestic chickens are allowed as an accessory use on any lot which is at least one half (1/2) acre in size, is located in the R-S, R-1A, R-1B, R-2, R-SM and R-3 zoning districts and which is utilized for residential purposes. Up to six (6) chicken hens of any breed may be kept.” 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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