Chickens & Livestock: Austin vs Nashville
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Austin, TX and Nashville, TN?
Austin has fewer restrictions than Nashville.
Austin, TX
Travis County
Austin City Code Chapter 3-2 allows up to 10 chickens on most residential lots with setbacks of 50 feet from neighboring dwellings for coops. Roosters are allowed but subject to noise enforcement. Livestock (goats, pigs, cattle) require minimum lot sizes.
View full Austin rules →Nashville, TN
Davidson County
Metro Nashville allows backyard hens on residential parcels under Title 5, with coop setbacks, no roosters in most residential zones, and lot-size thresholds for goats, hogs, and larger livestock under Title 17 zoning.
View full Nashville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Austin | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Hens allowed | - | Residential, no roosters |
| Coop setback | - | From property lines required |
| Livestock zoning | - | AR2a or larger acreage |
| Enforcement | - | MACC and Codes Dept |
| Code section | - | Metro Title 5 / Title 17 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Austin FAQ
Nashville FAQ
Can I keep a rooster in Nashville?
Generally no in residential districts due to noise restrictions. Roosters are typically only permitted on Agricultural-zoned parcels with adequate acreage and setbacks.
Do I need a permit for backyard chickens?
No standalone permit, but the coop must comply with zoning setbacks, sanitation rules, and Title 5 animal care standards. HOA rules may impose additional limits.
Can I sell eggs from my home?
Limited direct sales are allowed under Tennessee cottage food law, but not at retail. Check Metro Public Health Department before advertising sales.
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