Madison, AL Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum lot size
- 3 acres
- Corral (1 animal)
- 10,000 sq ft
- Each added animal
- 1,000 sq ft
- Setback from dwellings
- 75 feet
- Code section
- Madison City Code § 6-13
Summary
Keeping livestock inside Madison city limits requires a lot of at least three acres. Corrals need minimum square footage per animal and must sit at least 75 feet from any neighboring dwelling.
It shall be unlawful for any person to keep any animal in any corral or stable in the city, any part of which is within 75 feet of a dwelling occupied by a person other than the person keeping such animal, or if such dwelling is not occupied, owned by a person other than the person keeping such animal.
Full Breakdown
Madison City Code § 6-13 governs livestock. It is unlawful to keep livestock on any lot smaller than three acres. Any corral must provide at least 10,000 square feet for one animal, plus 1,000 additional square feet for each additional animal, with unrestricted access. No corral or stable may be located within 75 feet of a dwelling occupied or owned by anyone other than the keeper; pastures established before May 7, 1974 and continuously used are grandfathered. Because Alabama is a Dillon-rule state, the underlying agricultural use also depends on the property's zoning district, so verify your parcel with Madison Planning & Economic Development before bringing livestock onto it.
Violations & Fines
Keeping livestock below the three-acre minimum, in an undersized corral, or inside the 75-foot setback is unlawful under § 6-13 and punishable under § 6-2 / § 1-8.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much land do I need for livestock in Madison, AL?
How far must a stable be from my neighbor's house?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Madison
How Madison compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Madison to another location·View the Alabama animal ordinances overview
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Chickens & Livestock in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Madison County handle chickens & livestock.