Can I keep chickens in Yankton, SD?
Yes — Yankton allows backyard chickens, up to 6 hens with a required permit/registration. Roosters are prohibited. (Chapter 5 — Animals and Fowl, Code of Ordinances, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Yes |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop rules | Hens must be kept in an enclosed coop; permit application must include a site plan showing coop location and distances from property lines, drainage easements, and neighboring dwellings. |
| Code section | Chapter 5 — Animals and Fowl, Code of Ordinances |
Yankton allows up to 6 hens per residence under a 2014 updated animal ordinance; roosters are not permitted. A permit is required and applicants must submit a site plan with coop placement and distances from property lines and neighboring dwellings.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Yankton?
Yes — chickens are allowed in Yankton (Chapter 5 — Animals and Fowl, Code of Ordinances).
How many chickens can I keep in Yankton?
Up to 6 hens.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Yankton?
Yes — Yankton requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
Are roosters allowed in Yankton?
No — roosters are prohibited in Yankton.
What law covers backyard chickens in Yankton?
Chapter 5 — Animals and Fowl, Code of Ordinances. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Chapter 5 — Animals and Fowl, Code of Ordinances — read the official code
“No fowl, livestock or exotic animals are permitted, except for six hens.” 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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