Springfield, IL Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Keeping of fowl and livestock in Springfield is governed by the city's zoning and Lake Springfield watershed rules rather than a single permissive 'backyard chicken' section. In standard residential zones, hens may be kept in the rear yard subject to zoning approval and the city's general nuisance ordinance, which the police and code enforcement use to address odor, noise, and free-range birds; roosters are typically treated as a noise nuisance. The number of chickens allowed varies by zone. The most specific written restriction is in Springfield Municipal Code Chapter 96 (Lake Springfield), which divides the watershed into zones and provides that no livestock or poultry shall be kept in 'Zone E,' that no domestic livestock or poultry may run at large in Zone E, and that no animal or poultry shall be allowed to stand, wallow, wade, swim, or be washed or watered in the reservoir.

Because Springfield's own livestock rules are tied to zoning and the lake watershed, residents planning to keep hens, ducks, goats, or other animals should confirm the zone classification and any setback or enclosure conditions with the Springfield Building and Zoning Department (217-789-2171) before acquiring animals.