Can I keep chickens in Chesapeake, VA?
Yes, with conditions — Chesapeake allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 6 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited. (Chesapeake Zoning Ordinance Sec. 14-101.C.2.f (RE-1: Sec. 6-2101), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Home slaughter | Not allowed |
| Coop rules | Chickens must be housed in a fully enclosed accessory structure located in the rear yard; a permit is required for the accessory structure. |
| Code section | Chesapeake Zoning Ordinance Sec. 14-101.C.2.f (RE-1: Sec. 6-2101) |
Chesapeake allows six or fewer female chickens (no roosters) as an accessory use in all single-family residential zoning districts, except RE-1 Residential Estate lots which follow separate livestock rules. Chickens must be housed in a fully enclosed accessory structure in the rear yard with a permit, and on-site slaughter on residentially zoned property is prohibited.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Chesapeake?
Yes, with conditions — Chesapeake allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Chesapeake Zoning Ordinance Sec. 14-101.C.2.f (RE-1: Sec. 6-2101)).
How many chickens can I keep in Chesapeake?
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 Chesapeake?
Yes — Chesapeake requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
Are roosters allowed in Chesapeake?
No — roosters are prohibited in Chesapeake.
Can I slaughter chickens at home in Chesapeake?
No — slaughter is not permitted under Chesapeake's code.
What law covers backyard chickens in Chesapeake?
Chesapeake Zoning Ordinance Sec. 14-101.C.2.f (RE-1: Sec. 6-2101). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Chesapeake Zoning Ordinance Sec. 14-101.C.2.f (RE-1: Sec. 6-2101) — read the official code
“The chickens shall be housed in a fully enclosed accessory structure that meets the requirements of subsections 14-102.B.1-6 of the CZO. The accessory structure shall be located in the rear yard. A permit is required for the accessory structure.” source
“six (6) or fewer female chickens may be kept as an accessory use in all single-family residential zoning districts.” source
“Nothing herein shall be construed to permit the slaughtering of chickens on property zoned for residential use.” 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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