Can I keep chickens in Reading, PA?
Yes, with conditions — Reading allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations. (Code Ch. 141 (Animals), Section 141-215, verified July 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop rules | Animal Control Officer inspects for odor, noise, sanitation, ventilation, animal health and secure restraint before a permit is issued. |
| Code section | Code Ch. 141 (Animals), Section 141-215 |
Reading treats chickens as a 'domestic agricultural animal.' Keeping one is unlawful without a permit issued by the Animal Control Board, granted only after inspection and only if the Board is satisfied the animals will not threaten public health or safety. There is no fixed hen count, setback, or lot-size standard in the code; approval is discretionary and per household.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Reading?
Yes, with conditions — Reading allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Code Ch. 141 (Animals), Section 141-215).
How many chickens can I keep in Reading?
It depends on your lot. Keeping chickens (a 'domestic agricultural animal') requires a discretionary permit from the Animal Control Board, issued only after inspection and a finding of no threat to public health/safety. No numeric hen limit, setback, or lot-size threshold in the ordinance.. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Reading?
Yes — Reading requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
What law covers backyard chickens in Reading?
Code Ch. 141 (Animals), Section 141-215. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Code Ch. 141 (Animals), Section 141-215 — read the official code
“It shall be unlawful for anyone to own, harbor or permit at large any exotic animal, domestic agricultural animal, or native wildlife animal within the City without a permit issued by the Animal Control Board.” source
“DOMESTIC AGRICULTURAL ANIMAL - Any nonwildlife or nonexotic species altered through controlled breeding for the primary purpose of agricultural use or farming purposes.” 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 →