New Castle County, DE Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Keeping of poultry and livestock in unincorporated New Castle County is governed by the UDC Article 40 (zoning) and NCC Code Chapter 5 (animals). Residential districts NC5, NC6a, NC6b, and NC10 generally allow a limited number of hens (typically 4 to 6) with no roosters as an accessory use, subject to coop setback requirements of at least 10 to 25 feet from property lines and structures. Coops must be clean, enclosed, and not create nuisance odors or noise. Roosters are prohibited in all residential districts due to noise. Larger livestock including goats, pigs, sheep, horses, and cattle are restricted to SR (Suburban Reserve) and CR (Conservation Reserve) districts, which require minimum lot sizes of 10+ acres depending on the species and count. The agricultural preservation areas in southern New Castle County (Middletown-Odessa-Townsend corridor) include substantial farmland with active livestock operations under Delaware's Young Farmer and Agricultural Preservation programs. Delaware Title 3 §7301 et seq. covers animal welfare; 3 Del.C. §6001 requires permits for exotic species. Commercial poultry operations over defined thresholds are subject to DNREC CAFO (concentrated animal feeding operation) rules and nutrient management plans. HOAs throughout Brandywine Hundred, Hockessin, and Pike Creek typically prohibit poultry regardless of UDC permission.