Can I keep chickens in Lead, SD?
Yes, with conditions — Lead allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 6 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 50 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (§ 91.007 Keeping of Fowl Restricted (Chapter 91 Animals), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes ($100) |
| Coop setback | 50 ft |
| Coop rules | Chickens must be kept in an enclosure at all times; coop/run must be at least 50 feet from any occupied structure other than the owner's dwelling; enclosure design regulations apply. |
| Code section | § 91.007 Keeping of Fowl Restricted (Chapter 91 Animals) |
Lead voters approved a chicken ordinance in a September 2017 referendum (174-114). Up to 6 hens are allowed with a permit ($100 one-time application fee); roosters are prohibited. Coops must be at least 50 feet from any occupied structure other than the owner's home. The ordinance is codified in Chapter 91 of the city code.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Lead?
Yes, with conditions — Lead allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (§ 91.007 Keeping of Fowl Restricted (Chapter 91 Animals)).
How many chickens can I keep in Lead?
Up to 6 hens. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Lead?
Yes — Lead requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens (fee: $100).
Are roosters allowed in Lead?
No — roosters are prohibited in Lead.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Lead?
50 feet minimum. Chickens must be kept in an enclosure at all times; coop/run must be at least 50 feet from any occupied structure other than the owner's dwelling; enclosure design regulations apply.
What law covers backyard chickens in Lead?
§ 91.007 Keeping of Fowl Restricted (Chapter 91 Animals). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
§ 91.007 Keeping of Fowl Restricted (Chapter 91 Animals) — read the official code
“A new ordinance allowing chickens in Lead has been approved... The ordinance says you can have no more than six hens, no rooster, and chickens must be kept in an enclosure at all times.” source
“There is also a one-time application fee of $100 that you have to pay after filling out a five page application.” source
“It would allow a maximum of six chickens, which must be kept in a coop with an attached run at least 50 feet away from any occupied building other than the owner's dwelling.” 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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