Lowell, MA Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Lowell Code Sec. 104-34 (General restrictions)
- Chickens / Hens / Roosters
- Prohibited (within FOWL definition, Sec. 104-33)
- Only Exception
- Pigeons, by Health Dept. license (Sec. 104-32)
- Fowl/Swine/Goats
- Need Board of Health license (Sec. 171-11)
- Source Type
- .gov PDF (lowellma.gov)
Summary
Lowell City Code Section 104-34 flatly prohibits keeping animals or fowl within the city limits except licensed pigeons, so backyard chickens, roosters and other livestock are not allowed. Separately, Section 171-11 bars keeping fowl, swine or goats without a Board of Health license.
A. No person shall keep animals or fowl within the city limits, except pigeons. B. No person shall keep pigeons in any building any part of which is used as a dwelling, including but not limited to attached garages and breezeways, etc. C. Dogs must be licensed according to the provisions of Lowell City ordinances and of state law (MGL c. 140, Sec. 137). Exotic birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians may be kept as pets subject to the licensing requirements of state law (MGL c. 131, ss 23 and 25 and c. 131A, s 1).
Full Breakdown
' The code's definitions (Sec. 104-33) define FOWL to include 'chickens, pigeons, doves, capons, hens, turkeys, pheasants, guinea fowl, ducks, roosters and geese,' so backyard hens and roosters fall squarely within the prohibition. Pigeons are the sole exception and may be kept only under a license issued by the Lowell Health and Human Services Department pursuant to Sec. 104-32, with no license available for any other animal or fowl. '
Violations & Fines
Keeping prohibited animals or fowl in violation of Section 104-34 is enforced by the Lowell Board of Health and Animal Control, which may order removal of the animals and issue penalties under the Chapter 104 violation and penalty provisions (Sec. 104-42 for the Article III animals-and-fowl sections). Keeping fowl, swine or goats without a Board of Health license violates Section 171-11 and is enforceable as a public-health nuisance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep backyard chickens in Lowell?
Are any birds allowed?
What about goats or other livestock?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lowell
How Lowell compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Lowell to another location·View the Massachusetts animal ordinances overview
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Chickens & Livestock in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle chickens & livestock.