Sterling Heights does not allow backyard chickens or livestock in residential zoning districts. The city code prohibits keeping poultry, fowl, goats, pigs, horses, or cattle within the city limits except on parcels zoned for agriculture or grandfathered farm operations. The Michigan Right to Farm Act may protect a small number of legacy parcels.
Sterling Heights — unlike its progressive neighbor Ann Arbor — has not adopted a backyard chicken ordinance. The city code defines "livestock" broadly to include chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, peacocks, pigs, goats, sheep, horses, cattle, and similar farm animals. Keeping such animals in residential zoning districts (R-60, R-70, R-80) is prohibited. The city has rejected several proposals over the past decade to allow hens, citing concerns about predators, odor, and the suburban character of the community.
A limited number of properties in the city retain pre-1968-incorporation agricultural use and may continue legacy farming under nonconforming-use protections. Newer parcels generally cannot qualify because the city is fully built-out at suburban densities. The Michigan Right to Farm Act (MCL §286.471 et seq.) may protect a qualifying farm operation that meets state Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs), but the typical Sterling Heights residential lot does not qualify.
For household pets, the city allows up to three dogs and three cats per dwelling without a kennel license. Larger numbers require a kennel permit. Exotic animals (reptiles over a certain size, wild animals) require additional permitting and are restricted under MCL §287.731 (Large Carnivore Act).
Keeping prohibited livestock is a civil infraction with fines starting at $250 first offense and escalating to $500 and $1,000 for repeats. The city may order removal of animals within 7 days. Persistent violations can result in misdemeanor charges. Report concerns to Macomb County Animal Control via Sterling Heights Police at (586) 446-2800.
Sterling Heights, MI
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