Can I keep chickens in Milwaukee, WI?
Yes, with conditions — Milwaukee allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 4 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 25 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Milwaukee Code of Ordinances 78-6.5 (Keeping of Chickens in the City), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 4 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes ($35.56) |
| Coop setback | 25 ft |
| Home slaughter | Not allowed |
| Coop rules | Coop+yard must provide >=16 sq ft per chicken; coop max 10 ft tall and max 50 sq ft; raised off ground or on hard surface; enclosure not within 25 ft of any residential structure on an adjacent lot; no front yard; cleaned daily. |
| Code section | Milwaukee Code of Ordinances 78-6.5 (Keeping of Chickens in the City) |
Milwaukee allows residents to keep up to 4 chickens (hens only; no roosters) on a residential premises with a one-time $35.56 permit from the Department of Neighborhood Services. Slaughter is prohibited and enclosures must be at least 25 feet from any adjacent residential structure. Permits are not allowed on commercial or mixed-use properties.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Milwaukee?
Yes, with conditions — Milwaukee allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Milwaukee Code of Ordinances 78-6.5 (Keeping of Chickens in the City)).
How many chickens can I keep in Milwaukee?
Up to 4 hens. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Milwaukee?
Yes — Milwaukee requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens (fee: $35.56).
Are roosters allowed in Milwaukee?
No — roosters are prohibited in Milwaukee.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Milwaukee?
25 feet minimum. Coop+yard must provide >=16 sq ft per chicken; coop max 10 ft tall and max 50 sq ft; raised off ground or on hard surface; enclosure not within 25 ft of any residential structure on an adjacent lot; no front yard; cleaned daily.
Can I slaughter chickens at home in Milwaukee?
No — slaughter is not permitted under Milwaukee's code.
What law covers backyard chickens in Milwaukee?
Milwaukee Code of Ordinances 78-6.5 (Keeping of Chickens in the City). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Milwaukee Code of Ordinances 78-6.5 (Keeping of Chickens in the City) — read the official code
“Read 78-6.5 Keeping of Chickens in the City and our Chicken Keeping Brochure for more information.” source
“Chicken coops and yards together shall be large enough to provide at least 16 square feet per chicken. Coops cannot be taller than 10 feet. Coops cannot exceed 50 sq. ft.” source
“The keeping of up to 4 chickens, with a permit is allowed on a residential premise only. Permits will not be allowed on commercial or mixed-use occupancies.” source
“Mail Chicken Coop Site Plan Form and a check or money order payable to City of Milwaukee for $35.56 (one-time fee) to the Department of Neighborhood Services” 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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