Can I keep chickens in Smithfield, RI?
Yes, with conditions — Smithfield allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 6 hens where permitted). (Zoning Ordinance Art. 4, Secs. 4.4A-4.B (Fowl — Chickens and Other Domesticated Fowl) (enacted Feb. 5, 2026), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop rules | Minimum housing and sanitation standards required; weekly cleaning; food must be rodent-proof; setbacks and frontage requirements in ordinance table (specific distances in adopted PDF not extractable); roosters require additional space per the table |
| Code section | Zoning Ordinance Art. 4, Secs. 4.4A-4.B (Fowl — Chickens and Other Domesticated Fowl) (enacted Feb. 5, 2026) |
Smithfield enacted a new fowl ordinance effective approximately March 7, 2026. Lots in R20 and R20M zones require a Special Use Permit with neighbor notification. The ordinance table sets a starting baseline of 6 hens per 2 acres, with numbers and requirements varying by zone and fowl type. Prior to this amendment, lots under 80,000 sq ft had essentially no pathway to keep chickens.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Smithfield?
Yes, with conditions — Smithfield allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Zoning Ordinance Art. 4, Secs. 4.4A-4.B (Fowl — Chickens and Other Domesticated Fowl) (enacted Feb. 5, 2026)).
How many chickens can I keep in Smithfield?
Up to 6 hens. Table-based formula starting at 6 hens per 2 acres (87120 sq ft); varies by zone and fowl type; SUP required for R20/R20M zones; full table in image-only PDF not extractable. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Smithfield?
Yes — Smithfield requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
What law covers backyard chickens in Smithfield?
Zoning Ordinance Art. 4, Secs. 4.4A-4.B (Fowl — Chickens and Other Domesticated Fowl) (enacted Feb. 5, 2026). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Zoning Ordinance Art. 4, Secs. 4.4A-4.B (Fowl — Chickens and Other Domesticated Fowl) (enacted Feb. 5, 2026) — read the official code
“Adopted Zoning Ordinance Amendments: 4.4A-4.B Fowl (Chickens and Other Domesticated Fowl) — listed as adopted amendment on official town ordinances page” source
“The council unanimously voted to pass the amended ordinance, which will go into effect 30 days after the vote, Feb. 5. Those living in R20 and R20M residential zones who wish to own chickens must apply for a special use permit. [Jan 15, 2026]” source
“There is a key table in the ordinance showing the maximum number of fowl allowed by lot size. It begins at six hens for every two acres, and changes for type of fowl and zoning. It also outlines setbacks and frontages, with more space needed for roosters. [Dec 4, 2025]” source
Last verified June 15, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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