Animal Ordinances in Burlington, VT (2026)
5 verified animal ordinances for Burlington, Vermont, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Chickens & Livestock
Burlington permits a small number of backyard hens on residential lots subject to setbacks, coop standards, and a ban on roosters. Other livestock are restricted by zoning under the Comprehensive Development Ordinance.
Backyard Chickens Allowed With Limits
Some RestrictionsDog Leash Laws
Burlington Code Chapter 5 requires dogs to be under owner control on a leash whenever off the owner's premises, with limited exceptions for designated off-leash areas in city parks.
Burlington Dog Leash and Control Rules
Some RestrictionsBreed Restrictions
Burlington does not impose breed-specific dog bans. Chapter 5 instead targets individual dogs declared vicious after a hearing, consistent with Vermont's behavior-based approach to dangerous-dog regulation.
No Breed-Specific Bans in Burlington
Few RestrictionsBeekeeping
Burlington allows residential beekeeping consistent with Vermont's apiary statutes. Hives must be registered with the Vermont Agency of Agriculture and kept in a way that avoids creating a nuisance for neighbors.
Beekeeping Permitted in Burlington Yards
Few RestrictionsWildlife Feeding
Burlington discourages feeding of wildlife and stray animals because it creates rodent, bear, and public-health problems. Vermont law also prohibits intentionally feeding black bears under 10 V.S.A. wildlife rules.
No Feeding of Wildlife or Strays
Some RestrictionsLooking for Chittenden County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Burlington city rules.
Animal Ordinances in Chittenden County →