Allentown generally prohibits keeping chickens, livestock, and farm animals in residential zoning districts under Chapter 506 and the zoning ordinance. Pigeons, roosters, goats, pigs, and similar animals are banned within city limits without a special exception. Pet rabbits and pet birds are allowed but must not create nuisance conditions.
Allentown Codified Ordinances Chapter 506 (Animals) and the zoning ordinance prohibit the keeping of fowl (chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, roosters), goats, sheep, pigs, cattle, and horses within the corporate limits of the city in any residential zoning district. Section 506.06 specifically declares the keeping of fowl in city limits to be a public nuisance unless authorized. The zoning code does not include a backyard-chicken provision like neighboring townships and many Lehigh Valley municipalities. Pigeons may be kept only with a permit from the Health Bureau and must be confined to a loft meeting setback and sanitation standards. Pet rabbits, hamsters, and pet birds are permitted in homes, but accumulations creating odor or attracting vermin violate the property maintenance code. Beekeeping is regulated separately under state Bee Law and requires registration with PA Department of Agriculture.
Keeping prohibited fowl or livestock is a summary offense with fines starting at $100 per animal per day and rising to $500 for repeat violations. Animals may be impounded by Lehigh County Humane Society. Property may also receive nuisance and zoning violation notices forcing removal within 30 days.
Allentown, PA
Allentown prohibits storing abandoned, inoperable, or unregistered vehicles on public streets or visible on private property. Vehicles may be tagged and towe...
Allentown, PA
Allentown regulates electric vehicle charging infrastructure for residential and commercial properties. Building codes may require EV-ready parking in new co...
Allentown, PA
Allentown regulates overnight parking on public streets. Many areas restrict parking between certain hours or require permits for overnight street parking.
Allentown, PA
Allentown requires pool barriers meeting safety codes to prevent drowning. Fences must be at least 4 to 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates.
Allentown, PA
Allentown requires permits for retaining walls above a certain height, typically 4 feet. Engineering review may be required for taller walls.
Allentown, PA
Allentown may have wildfire hazard zones requiring defensible space around structures, fire-resistant building materials, and vegetation management.
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Lehigh County.
See how other cities in Lehigh County handle chickens & livestock.
See how Allentown's chickens & livestock rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.