DeKalb County Code Chapter 5 allows backyard hens on lots of sufficient size with coop setbacks. Roosters restricted. Livestock limited to agricultural or large-lot zones.
DeKalb County Code of Ordinances Chapter 5 (Animals) and zoning Chapter 27 regulate poultry and livestock. Backyard hens are generally allowed in residential zones subject to lot-size minimums and coop setbacks from property lines and dwellings (typically 25 feet from adjacent homes). Roosters are restricted in dense residential areas due to noise. Goats, pigs, horses, and cattle are limited to lots of at least 2 acres or agriculturally zoned parcels, most common in south DeKalb near Lithonia and Stonecrest's undeveloped edges. The Georgia Right to Farm Act (O.C.G.A. §41-1-7) protects established agricultural uses. DeKalb County Animal Services enforces humane care and coop sanitation.
Ordinance violations: $100 to $1,000 and daily fines for continuing violations. Animal Services may order removal if conditions endanger animal welfare or create public nuisance.
DeKalb County, GA
Construction noise in unincorporated DeKalb County is regulated under Ch. 16, Art. VII, §16-304. Construction and demolition activities (pile drivers, pneuma...
DeKalb County, GA
DeKalb County noise ordinance §16-304 specifically limits animal vocalizations in residential areas: pets may not vocalize continuously for more than 15 minu...
DeKalb County, GA
DeKalb County noise ordinance (Ch. 16, Art. VII) applies to unincorporated areas. Quiet hours: 11:00 PM–7:00 AM in residential areas — it is unlawful to crea...
DeKalb County, GA
Dekalb County regulates amplified music under the general noise ordinance. Sound permits available for events. O.C.G.A. §16-11-39 applies to unreasonable dis...
DeKalb County, GA
Recreational vehicles and trailers in residential zones of unincorporated DeKalb County are subject to zoning ordinance (Ch. 27) standards. Long-term RV stor...
DeKalb County, GA
Street parking in unincorporated DeKalb County follows Georgia vehicle code and county ordinances. No parking within 15 feet of fire hydrants, no blocking dr...
See how DeKalb County's chickens & livestock rules stack up against other locations.
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