Charleston Code Chapter 5 permits limited backyard hens on residentially zoned lots, but roosters, swine, and most livestock are prohibited inside city limits because of nuisance, noise, and sanitation concerns.
Chapter 5 of the Charleston Code regulates animals kept within city limits, restricting livestock to agricultural-zoned parcels. Single-family residences may keep a small flock of hens for personal egg use, provided coops are setback from property lines, kept sanitary, and free of vermin. Roosters are barred citywide due to noise. Goats, swine, cattle, and horses are not allowed on standard residential lots inside Charleston, though some larger Berkeley and Dorchester County parcels annexed into the city may retain limited grandfathered uses. Charleston Animal Society handles enforcement complaints alongside Livability and Tourism officers.
First nuisance complaints typically receive a written warning; continued violations can lead to civil citations, removal of animals, and per-day fines under Chapter 5.
Charleston, SC
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See how Charleston's chickens & livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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