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Stuart, FL Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 week ago|Source: Stuart FL Code of Ordinances Ch. 8 (Animals) →

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Key Facts

Current Status: Backyard chickens prohibited (May 2026)
Code Section: Stuart Code of Ordinances Ch. 8 (Animals)
Pending Change: 4-hen limit, no roosters (CRB 5-2 vote May 7, 2026)
Proposed Coop Height: Up to 7 feet
Proposed Fee: $65 annual inspection fee

Summary

Stuart, FL currently prohibits backyard chickens citywide under Code of Ordinances Chapter 8 (Animals). On May 7, 2026, the Community Redevelopment Board voted 5-2 to recommend allowing up to 4 hens (no roosters) on R1A, R1, R2, urban-neighborhood and single-family-detached lots — pending Stuart City Commission approval.

Full Breakdown

Stuart is in Martin County, where the Sheriff's Office has historically taken the position that chickens 'shouldn't be kept in any residential zoned location whatsoever.' The pending 2026 amendment to Chapter 8 would permit chickens only as an accessory use on occupied single-family or duplex properties, with coops up to 7 feet tall, hedges allowed alongside fences as additional screening, and an annual $65 inspection fee. Roosters are not part of the proposal — the recommendation is hens-only. Until the City Commission adopts the change, keeping chickens of any kind within Stuart city limits remains a code violation.

Violations & Fines

Code Compliance can issue citations and civil penalties under Chapter 8 for unlawful keeping of fowl. Penalties accrue daily until the violation is corrected; recurring violations may be referred to the Code Enforcement Magistrate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep backyard chickens in Stuart, FL right now?

No. Stuart Code of Ordinances Chapter 8 currently prohibits keeping chickens in residential zones. A May 7, 2026 Community Redevelopment Board recommendation to allow 4 hens still requires Stuart City Commission approval before it takes effect.

Will Stuart allow roosters under the new ordinance?

No. The May 2026 proposal is explicitly limited to hens — up to 4 per property. Roosters are not included in the recommendation, which is consistent with most Florida cities that ban roosters in residential zones due to noise.

Which Stuart zoning districts would be eligible for backyard hens?

Per the May 7, 2026 board recommendation: R1A, R1, R2, urban neighborhood, and single-family detached zones, on occupied single-family or duplex properties.

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Stuart, FL Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)

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