Can I keep chickens in Sarasota, FL?
Yes — Sarasota allows backyard chickens, up to 4 hens with no permit required. Roosters are prohibited. (8 (Animals), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Yes |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 4 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Coop rules | Maximum 4 hens, no roosters. Must use movable coop or fenced backyard, secured in coop at night. Setbacks and sanitation restrictions apply. 3-year trial period. |
| Code section | 8 (Animals) |
Sarasota allows up to 4 hens in residential zones (RE-2, RE-3, Residential Combination) with no roosters permitted. Chickens must be in movable coop or enclosed, secured area. Ordinance 11-4955 enacted February 2011 with 3-year trial period.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Sarasota?
Yes — chickens are allowed in Sarasota (8 (Animals)).
How many chickens can I keep in Sarasota?
Up to 4 hens.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Sarasota?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Sarasota.
Are roosters allowed in Sarasota?
No — roosters are prohibited in Sarasota.
What law covers backyard chickens in Sarasota?
8 (Animals). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
8 (Animals) — read the official code
“Are Chickens Allowed in this location: Yes. Max Chickens Allowed: 4 hens” source
Last verified June 12, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code.
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