Can I keep chickens in Miami, FL?
Yes — Miami allows backyard chickens, up to 15 hens with a required permit/registration. Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 100 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (6-1, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Yes |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 15 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop setback | 100 ft |
| Home slaughter | Not allowed |
| Coop rules | Pens 100 feet from any dwelling. All food in covered, rat-proof containers. Droppings removed twice weekly. |
| Code section | 6-1 |
City of Miami permits poultry with county health unit permit. Maximum 15 hens and 30 growing chicks. No roosters. Strict 100-foot setback from dwelling units.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Miami?
Yes — chickens are allowed in Miami (6-1).
How many chickens can I keep in Miami?
Up to 15 hens.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Miami?
Yes — Miami requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
Are roosters allowed in Miami?
No — roosters are prohibited in Miami.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Miami?
100 feet minimum. Pens 100 feet from any dwelling. All food in covered, rat-proof containers. Droppings removed twice weekly.
Can I slaughter chickens at home in Miami?
No — slaughter is not permitted under Miami's code.
What law covers backyard chickens in Miami?
6-1. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
6-1 — read the official code
“Live poultry, fowl or grazing animals may be kept, harbored, bred or maintained in the city, subject to the following limitations and restrictions” source
Last verified June 12, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code.
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