Chickens & Livestock: Burlington vs Newton
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Burlington, MA and Newton, MA?
Burlington and Newton 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 →Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Newton permits backyard hens in most residential zones with setback requirements and coop standards, while roosters and larger livestock are generally prohibited.
View full Newton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burlington | Newton |
|---|---|---|
| Urban max | 6 hens typical | - |
| Roosters | Banned urban/suburban | Prohibited |
| Suburban setback | 25-50 feet | - |
| Right to Farm | Many rural towns adopted | - |
| Permit needed | Yes in most cities | - |
| Hens allowed | - | Typically up to 6 |
| Coop setbacks | - | 10 to 25 feet |
| Larger livestock | - | Generally not allowed |
| Enforcement | - | ISD on complaint |
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.
Newton FAQ
Can I keep a rooster for eggs?
No, roosters are not necessary for egg-laying and are prohibited in Newton due to crowing noise.
Do I need a permit for chickens?
Some zoning districts require a permit or registration; check with ISD before building a coop.
Compare other topics
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