Simpsonville, SC Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Simpsonville Code of Ordinances Chapter 6 (Animals) governs animal-keeping within the city. The chapter does not single out chickens, livestock, or fowl in a separate section. Instead, city officials interpret 'fowl' as included within the general four-animal-per-household cap — that is, a household may keep a maximum of four animals total, which may include dogs, cats, chickens, or other fowl in any combination. There are no separate permit fees, coop setback standards, or rooster bans codified in Chapter 6, but the chapter's nuisance provisions apply: any animal whose noise, odor, or condition disturbs neighbors can be cited as a public nuisance regardless of count. Larger livestock (goats, sheep, pigs, cattle, horses) are not permitted as accessory uses in Simpsonville's standard residential zones under the city's zoning code; agricultural keeping is generally available only on legally non-conforming parcels or in unincorporated Greenville County under the county's more permissive rules. Residents considering chickens should call Simpsonville City Hall to confirm current interpretation before acquiring birds.