Allen County, IN Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- A1 Agricultural
- Poultry/livestock by right
- A3 Estates
- Livestock on 2+ acres
- Residential (R1-R3)
- Special use only
- Chickens counted as
- Domestic farm animal
- Authority
- Allen County Zoning Ordinance
Summary
In unincorporated Allen County, chickens, goats, and similar livestock are permitted by right in the A1 Agricultural and A3 Estates districts (livestock on 2+ acres in A3). In residential districts they are not a right; keeping small animals requires a Board of Zoning Appeals special-use permit.
production/keeping of cattle, goats, horses, pigs, sheep, and/or similar livestock, on properties of two (2) acres or more in size (excluding high intensity livestock operations).
Full Breakdown
The Allen County Zoning Ordinance (Title 3) controls where poultry and livestock may be kept in the unincorporated county. In the A1 Agricultural district, ACC 3-2-3-2 permits 'dairy, livestock, and poultry farming' by right (excluding confined feeding operations). In the A3 Estates district, ACC 3-2-4-2 permits 'production/keeping of cattle, goats, horses, pigs, sheep, and/or similar livestock, on properties of two (2) acres or more.' The code defines 'Domestic Farm Animal' to include poultry such as chickens and quail. In residential districts (R1, R2, R3, MHS), 'Animal keeping (outdoor, small animal)' is only a Special Use needing Board of Zoning Appeals approval, and that defined keeping excludes chickens (limited to 4H/educational use). Backyard chickens generally need agricultural zoning.
Violations & Fines
Keeping livestock or poultry where it is not permitted, or without a required special-use permit, is a zoning violation enforced by the Department of Planning Services and may result in abatement orders and fines. Incorporated towns set their own rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep backyard chickens in unincorporated Allen County?
How much land do I need for livestock?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Allen County
How Allen County compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Allen County to another location·View the Indiana animal ordinances overview
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