Can I keep chickens in Greenwood, SC?
Yes, with conditions — Greenwood allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 6 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited. (Appendix A (Zoning), Ch. 3 Residential District Regulations, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Coop rules | Chickens must be enclosed in coops/structures no less than 18 inches in height allowing free movement and ventilation; enclosures are accessory structures subject to accessory-structure requirements; rear yard of single-family detached dwellings. |
| Code section | Appendix A (Zoning), Ch. 3 Residential District Regulations |
The Greenwood zoning ordinance (Appendix A) permits keeping chickens as an accessory use in residential districts: limited to the rear yard of single-family detached dwellings, no more than 6 chickens, roosters prohibited, coops at least 18 inches high. No permit required (by-right accessory use). This corrects the prior 'unclear' finding.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Greenwood?
Yes, with conditions — Greenwood allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Appendix A (Zoning), Ch. 3 Residential District Regulations).
How many chickens can I keep in Greenwood?
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 Greenwood?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Greenwood.
Are roosters allowed in Greenwood?
No — roosters are prohibited in Greenwood.
What law covers backyard chickens in Greenwood?
Appendix A (Zoning), Ch. 3 Residential District Regulations. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Appendix A (Zoning), Ch. 3 Residential District Regulations — read the official code
“Chickens may not be allowed to roam free and must be enclosed in coops or other structures no less than 18 inches in height that allow free movement and adequate ventilation. Chicken enclosures are considered accessory structures...” source
“Keeping of chickens shall be an accessory use limited to the rear yard of single-family detached dwellings. No more than six (6) chickens shall be kept on a single property. Roosters are prohibited.” source
Last verified June 13, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
Reach people actively researching backyard chickens in their city. Founding sponsor slots now open.
Apply to become a sponsor →