Can I keep chickens in Brookings, SD?
Yes, with conditions — Brookings allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations. Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 125 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Chapter 14 (Animals), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | No |
| Coop setback | 125 ft |
| Coop rules | Permit requires site plan showing coop and run locations with distances from property lines, drainage easements, and nearby dwellings. No roosters. |
| Code section | Chapter 14 (Animals) |
Brookings allows up to 6 hens with a permit; roosters are prohibited. The ordinance adopted in 2015-2016 requires applicants to submit a site plan with coop placement details and distances from property lines and neighboring structures.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Brookings?
Yes, with conditions — Brookings allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Chapter 14 (Animals)).
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Brookings?
No — no permit is required for the base allowance in Brookings.
Are roosters allowed in Brookings?
No — roosters are prohibited in Brookings.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Brookings?
125 feet minimum. Permit requires site plan showing coop and run locations with distances from property lines, drainage easements, and nearby dwellings. No roosters.
What law covers backyard chickens in Brookings?
Chapter 14 (Animals). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Chapter 14 (Animals) — read the official code
“It is unlawful for any person to enclose or house any...domestic fowl within a distance of 125 feet of any dwelling other than that of the owner or caretaker” 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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