Can I keep chickens in Pittsburgh, PA?
Yes, with conditions — Pittsburgh allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 5 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited. (Zoning Code Section 912.07.B (Urban Agriculture, Accessory Use), verified July 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 5 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Coop rules | Structures housing chickens/ducks at least 6 sq ft, plus 2 sq ft per additional bird; covered, well ventilated, dry, predator-resistant; feed stored in secured rodent-proof containers. No other livestock on lots under 10,000 sq ft. |
| Code section | Zoning Code Section 912.07.B (Urban Agriculture, Accessory Use) |
Pittsburgh permits keeping chickens (and ducks) by right as an Urban Agriculture accessory use under Zoning Code Section 912.07.B. On a minimum 2,000 sq ft occupied lot you may keep up to 5 chickens, plus 1 additional per each additional 1,000 sq ft of lot area, with no other livestock on lots under 10,000 sq ft. Roosters are prohibited, no permit is required for personal (non-commercial) keeping, and coop structures must be at least 6 sq ft plus 2 sq ft per additional bird.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Pittsburgh?
Yes, with conditions — Pittsburgh allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Zoning Code Section 912.07.B (Urban Agriculture, Accessory Use)).
How many chickens can I keep in Pittsburgh?
Up to 5 hens. 5 hens on lots of 2,000+ sq ft, +1 per 1,000 sq ft above 2,000. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Pittsburgh?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Pittsburgh.
Are roosters allowed in Pittsburgh?
No — roosters are prohibited in Pittsburgh.
What law covers backyard chickens in Pittsburgh?
Zoning Code Section 912.07.B (Urban Agriculture, Accessory Use). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Zoning Code Section 912.07.B (Urban Agriculture, Accessory Use) — read the official code
“All structures related to the housing of chickens or ducks shall be at least six (6) square feet in size and a minimum of two (2) square feet per additional chicken or duck.” source
“For property with a minimum of two thousand (2,000) square feet in size, the resident is permitted five (5) chickens or ducks. For every additional one thousand (1,000) square feet of property, the resident is permitted one (1) additional chicken or duck, with no other livestock for lots under ten thousand (10,000 square feet).” source
“...permitted by right for Urban Agriculture (Accessory Use) With Animals. The property owner need not apply for any type of permit if the sole intent of growing crops is for personal/non-commercial use.” source
“Roosters are not permitted.” source
Last verified July 5, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
Reach people actively researching backyard chickens in their city. Founding sponsor slots now open.
Apply to become a sponsor →