Chickens & Livestock: Burlington vs Waltham
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Burlington, MA and Waltham, MA?
Burlington and Waltham 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 →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham zoning allows backyard chickens in limited residential districts with setback requirements, but no roosters and no other livestock.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burlington | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Urban max | 6 hens typical | - |
| Roosters | Banned urban/suburban | Prohibited citywide |
| Suburban setback | 25-50 feet | - |
| Right to Farm | Many rural towns adopted | - |
| Permit needed | Yes in most cities | - |
| Hens Allowed | - | Up to 6 in Residence A |
| Coop Setback | - | 10 ft property line |
| Dwelling Setback | - | 25 ft from neighbor |
| Livestock Minimum | - | 2 acres agricultural |
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.
Waltham FAQ
Can I keep chickens on a small lot?
Yes, in most residential zones with proper coop setbacks, but no roosters.
Can I keep a goat for milk?
Only on agricultural-zoned lots of 2 acres or more.
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