Can I keep chickens in Summerville, SC?
Yes, with conditions — Summerville allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 8 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited. (UDO Sec. 3.4.10 (amended May 14, 2026), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 8 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Coop rules | Non-commercial poultry permitted in all districts except L-1, H-1, AC, PL; kept in a rear-yard fenced enclosure sufficient to prevent encroachment (UDO Sec. 3.4.10). |
| Code section | UDO Sec. 3.4.10 (amended May 14, 2026) |
The live UDO (Sec. 3.4.10, current through May 2026) permits non-commercial poultry in all districts except L-1/H-1/AC/PL. For lots under 1 acre, keeping more than 8 hens is prohibited. Roosters and large livestock are prohibited; animals must be in a rear-yard fenced enclosure.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Summerville?
Yes, with conditions — Summerville allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (UDO Sec. 3.4.10 (amended May 14, 2026)).
How many chickens can I keep in Summerville?
Up to 8 hens. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Summerville?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Summerville.
Are roosters allowed in Summerville?
No — roosters are prohibited in Summerville.
What law covers backyard chickens in Summerville?
UDO Sec. 3.4.10 (amended May 14, 2026). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
UDO Sec. 3.4.10 (amended May 14, 2026) — read the official code
“Small animal husbandry permitted: The non-commercial keeping of small animals such as poultry, rabbits, miniature goats and other similar small creatures is permitted. The keeping of roosters... is prohibited. (UDO Sec. 3.4.10.A.1)” source
“Poultry Restriction: For lots less than 1 acre in total area, the keeping of more than 8 hens is prohibited. (UDO Sec. 3.4.10.A.2)” source
“The keeping of roosters or of cows, bulls, oxen, horses, donkeys, mules, sheep or any other similar large animals or livestock is prohibited. (UDO Sec. 3.4.10.A.1)” 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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