Chickens & Livestock: Burlington vs Lowell
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Burlington, MA and Lowell, MA?
Burlington and Lowell have similar restriction levels.
Burlington, MA
Middlesex County
Chicken and livestock rules vary by Middlesex town. Urban cities like Cambridge, Somerville, and Medford allow small flocks with permits; suburbs like Lexington and Concord allow larger flocks with setbacks.
View full Burlington rules →Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Backyard chickens are permitted in Lowell in limited numbers with setback requirements; roosters and larger livestock are generally restricted in residential zones.
View full Lowell rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burlington | Lowell |
|---|---|---|
| Urban max | 6 hens typical | - |
| Roosters | Banned urban/suburban | Prohibited in residential zones |
| Suburban setback | 25-50 feet | - |
| Right to Farm | Many rural towns adopted | - |
| Permit needed | Yes in most cities | - |
| Hen limit | - | Up to 6 hens typical |
| Coop setback | - | 20 ft property, 50 ft dwelling |
| Livestock | - | Special permit required |
| State law | - | MGL c.128 Right to Farm |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burlington FAQ
Can I have backyard chickens in Cambridge?
Yes, up to 6 hens with a permit from Inspectional Services. Roosters are prohibited.
Are goats allowed in Middlesex County?
Only in rural towns on sufficiently large lots. Most suburbs and cities prohibit goats and other livestock.
Lowell FAQ
Do I need a permit for backyard chickens?
Yes. Lowell Board of Health requires registration and an inspection of the coop location and design.
Can I keep goats for dairy?
Generally not on standard residential lots. A Zoning Board special permit and adequate acreage are required.
Compare other topics
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