Madison MGO 9.52 allows up to 4 hens per residential property with a chicken license. Roosters are prohibited. Coops must meet setback and sanitation standards, and neighbor notification is required.
Madison was among the first Wisconsin cities to formally legalize backyard chickens. Under MGO 9.52, residents may keep up to 4 hens with a city chicken license issued by the City Clerk. Roosters are strictly prohibited due to noise. Coop and run requirements include setbacks from adjacent dwellings (typically 25 feet), enclosed secure coop to prevent predator access, keeping the run clean to prevent odor and flies, and dry bedding. The license requires signed notification to adjacent property owners. Slaughter on premises is prohibited. Chickens may not run at large. The Madison chicken ordinance is a cornerstone of the city's urban agriculture framework and is frequently cited as a model nationally. Public Health Madison and Dane County inspects chicken facilities following complaints.
License violations: about 124 dollars. Rooster or over-limit: citations and order to reduce flock.
Madison, WI
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