Can I keep chickens in Vermillion, SD?
Yes, with conditions — Vermillion allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 3 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 20 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (§ 93.01 / § 93.54 / § 93.56 (Chapter 93 — Animals and Fowl), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 3 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop setback | 20 ft |
| Coop rules | Enclosure must be kept clean, neat, and sanitary; coop must be at least 20 feet from neighbor dwelling; no roosters; annual permit required from Animal Control Officer. |
| Code section | § 93.01 / § 93.54 / § 93.56 (Chapter 93 — Animals and Fowl) |
Vermillion allows up to 3 hens per household via a permit from the Animal Control Officer, codified in § 93.54 and referenced in § 93.01. Roosters are prohibited. The coop must be at least 20 feet from a neighboring dwelling. Ordinance 1337 adopted after 2016 council consideration.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Vermillion?
Yes, with conditions — Vermillion allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (§ 93.01 / § 93.54 / § 93.56 (Chapter 93 — Animals and Fowl)).
How many chickens can I keep in Vermillion?
Up to 3 hens. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Vermillion?
Yes — Vermillion requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
Are roosters allowed in Vermillion?
No — roosters are prohibited in Vermillion.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Vermillion?
20 feet minimum. Enclosure must be kept clean, neat, and sanitary; coop must be at least 20 feet from neighbor dwelling; no roosters; annual permit required from Animal Control Officer.
What law covers backyard chickens in Vermillion?
§ 93.01 / § 93.54 / § 93.56 (Chapter 93 — Animals and Fowl). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
§ 93.01 / § 93.54 / § 93.56 (Chapter 93 — Animals and Fowl) — read the official code
“In addition to the maximum number of pets, an individual may possess a set number of Gallus Domesticus (chickens) granted via a valid permit by the Animal Control Officer under § 93.54.” source
“Ordinance 1337 — Amending Title IX General Regulations Chapter 93 Animals and Fowl — Backyard Chickens (official city document)” source
Last verified June 15, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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