Can I keep chickens in Utica, NY?
No — Utica does not allow backyard chickens in residential zones. (Sec. 2-5-56 (Ch. 2-5, Art. III, Fowl), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | No |
|---|---|
| Code section | Sec. 2-5-56 (Ch. 2-5, Art. III, Fowl) |
Utica prohibits keeping fowl anywhere in the city. 'Fowl' is defined to include any live chickens, geese, ducks, pigeons or doves. Any permits issued before the prohibition are grandfathered only until the existing fowl die, after which they expire and no new permits are granted.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Utica?
No — chickens are not allowed in Utica (Sec. 2-5-56 (Ch. 2-5, Art. III, Fowl)).
What law covers backyard chickens in Utica?
Sec. 2-5-56 (Ch. 2-5, Art. III, Fowl). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Sec. 2-5-56 (Ch. 2-5, Art. III, Fowl) — read the official code
“No person shall have, or keep, or offer to sell any fowl within the City of Utica. "Fowl" includes any live chickens, geese, ducks, pigeons, or doves.” source
“Any permits previously issued shall be grandfathered until such time as the fowl are deceased and at that time said permits shall expire and no new permits shall be granted.” 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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