Rockville, MD Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

Rockville's zoning ordinance permits limited backyard chicken keeping in single-family residential zones. Residents may keep up to five hens with a city-issued permit costing $25, payable by check or money order to the City of Rockville. Roosters are not allowed. Chickens are prohibited in townhouse developments and other multi-family residential zoning districts. In addition to the city permit, residents must complete the Maryland Poultry Registration Form and register their chickens with the State of Maryland. Coops must meet setback and maintenance requirements to prevent nuisance conditions. Larger livestock including cattle, horses, pigs, goats, and sheep are restricted to agricultural zoning districts and are generally prohibited in Rockville's residential neighborhoods. Montgomery County regulations also apply, and while the county itself does not ban chickens, it prohibits roosters. The city's Community Enhancement Code Enforcement division responds to complaints about unauthorized animals and coop maintenance issues.