Animal Ordinances in Meriden, CT (2026)
3 verified animal ordinances for Meriden, Connecticut, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Chickens & Livestock
Meriden allows backyard chickens and turkeys as an accessory use in the R-R, S-R and R-1 districts, capping the flock at six birds on lots under 40,000 square feet and 12 on larger lots, banning roosters and toms outright, and requiring a zoning permit; horses need a full acre for the first animal and 1/3 acre for each additional one, up to 10.
Meriden Backyard Chicken and Livestock Limits
Some RestrictionsMeriden Code § 213-16C(4), (5)
(4) Keeping of horses, ponies and other animals of the equine family for the use of the occupants of the property only, subject to the following land area and setback requirements: (a) There shall be a minimum lot area of one acre required for the dwelling for the first animal being kept and 1/3 acre for each additional animal, with a maximum of 10 such animals. ... (5) Keeping of poultry. (a) ...
Dog Leash Laws
In the City of Meriden, dogs must stay on a leash or lead no longer than 10 feet whenever they are on a public street, sidewalk or other public property, unless in a dog run. Meriden Code § 65-5 exempts government and service dogs, and a violation carries a $50 citation.
Meriden Dog Leash Law: 10-Foot Limit
Some RestrictionsMeriden Code § 65-5
§ 65-5. Control of dogs in public places. A. Leashing of dogs in public places. Except in a dog run established by the town or any private entity, no owner or keeper shall bring any dog onto any public street, sidewalk or any other public property unless the dog is on a leash or lead that is no more than 10 feet long and under the control of its owner or keeper at all times. B. Conduct of dog...
Bird Protection
In the City of Meriden, City Code § 150-2A(2) bans disturbing or injuring any bird, bird's nest, or eggs, and any other wildlife, anywhere within Meriden, including on all Parks and Recreation Department property. The same park-rules subsection limits fishing to waters the City designates for it. Anyone who violates any Chapter 150 park rule, including this bird protection, faces a fine of $50 to $90 under § 150-2B(2), enforced by Meriden Police.
Meriden Bans Disturbing or Injuring Birds
Some RestrictionsMeriden Code § 150-2A(2), B(2)
Disturbing or injuring animals and fowl; limitations on fishing. No person shall disturb or injure any bird, bird's nest or eggs or any other animal in said municipality, or disturb or injure any animal wildlife within said City, or fish in its waters except waters designated for such purpose. ... Any person violating any provision of this chapter shall be subject to a fine, in addition to othe...