Chickens & Livestock: Charlotte vs Nashville
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Charlotte, NC and Nashville, TN?
Charlotte and Nashville have similar restriction levels.
Charlotte, NC
Mecklenburg County
Unincorporated Mecklenburg County allows backyard chickens on residential lots of 20,000 square feet or more. Up to 10 hens are permitted. Roosters are prohibited on lots under 2 acres. Coops must be 25 feet from property lines and 50 feet from neighboring dwellings.
View full Charlotte 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 | Charlotte | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Lot | 20,000 sq ft | - |
| Hen Limit | 10 hens | - |
| Roosters | 2+ acres only | - |
| Coop Setback | 25 feet | - |
| HOA | Often prohibit | - |
| 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.
Charlotte FAQ
Who enforces this in Mecklenburg County?
Mecklenburg County at (704) 336-7600 handles most complaints.
Who enforces this in Mecklenburg County?
Mecklenburg County at (704) 336-7600 handles most complaints.
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.
Compare other topics
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