Can I keep chickens in Anderson, SC?
Yes, with conditions — Anderson allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 4 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 50 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Sec. 18-10, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 4 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop setback | 50 ft |
| Home slaughter | Not allowed |
| Coop rules | Coop >=18 in off ground, 2 sq ft/hen, attached enclosed run (9-20 sq ft); coop+run max 100 sq ft; rear yard only; 3 ft accessory setback; 50 ft from nearest other residence; screened, predator-proof. |
| Code section | Sec. 18-10 |
Keeping fowl is generally unlawful in Anderson, but a narrow exception allows up to four hens (no roosters) on single-family lots only. An annually renewable permit with inspection, a council-set fee, and written permission from abutting owners is required; on-site slaughter and egg sales are prohibited.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Anderson?
Yes, with conditions — Anderson allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Sec. 18-10).
How many chickens can I keep in Anderson?
Up to 4 hens. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Anderson?
Yes — Anderson requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
Are roosters allowed in Anderson?
No — roosters are prohibited in Anderson.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Anderson?
50 feet minimum. Coop >=18 in off ground, 2 sq ft/hen, attached enclosed run (9-20 sq ft); coop+run max 100 sq ft; rear yard only; 3 ft accessory setback; 50 ft from nearest other residence; screened, predator-proof.
Can I slaughter chickens at home in Anderson?
No — slaughter is not permitted under Anderson's code.
What law covers backyard chickens in Anderson?
Sec. 18-10. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Sec. 18-10 — read the official code
“It shall be unlawful for any person or entity to keep... any chicken, poultry, birds... within the city. The following shall be excepted...: No more than four domesticated female chickens which shall be kept or maintained on lots with single-family dwellings only. No roosters shall be allowed.” source
“No person shall keep chickens on his premises within the city without first obtaining a completed and approved application (renewable annually) along with an initial and annual compliance inspection and payment of a fee as set by the city council.” source
“coops must be located at least 50 feet from the nearest residence other than that of the owner.” source
“No person shall slaughter any chickens on the premises. It shall be unlawful to raise chickens for commercial purposes within the city limits or to sell eggs laid by chickens kept in the city limits.” 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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