New York County Chickens & Livestock Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know

New York City is surprisingly permissive when it comes to backyard chickens. NYC Health Code Section 161.19 governs the keeping of livestock, live poultry, and rabbits. Under these rules, hens (female chickens) are legal to keep in all five boroughs — including Manhattan — without a permit and with no numerical limit on the number of hens. Chickens are classified as pets under the Health Code.

The key restriction is that roosters are prohibited, as are other poultry species including ducks, geese, and turkeys. This reflects the noise and nuisance concerns associated with roosters in a dense urban environment. The prohibition on other poultry species addresses both noise and public health considerations.

While the number of hens is technically unlimited, practical constraints apply. Chicken coops must be maintained in clean and sanitary condition per the Health Code. Areas where chickens are kept must not create nuisance conditions such as offensive odors or attract vermin. Neighbors can file complaints through 311 if chicken keeping creates unsanitary conditions, and the Department of Health can issue violations for inadequate maintenance.

Livestock such as cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and pigs are generally prohibited in most areas of the city without special permits. Some exceptions exist for certain agricultural districts and community gardens. The NYC Urban Agriculture office provides guidance on keeping animals in community garden settings. While backyard hens are legal, the practical reality in Manhattan — where most residents live in apartments with limited or no outdoor space — means that chicken keeping is far more common in the outer boroughs.