Chickens & Livestock: Cleveland vs Lakewood
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Cleveland, OH and Lakewood, OH?
Cleveland has fewer restrictions than Lakewood.
Cleveland, OH
Cuyahoga County
Cleveland may permit backyard chickens with limits on flock size and setbacks. Roosters typically banned in residential zones. Livestock restricted by zoning.
View full Cleveland rules →Lakewood, OH
Cuyahoga County
Lakewood allows up to six female chickens (hens) by annual permit in R1 and R2 residential districts, with a citywide cap of 50 permits. Roosters, other game birds, and most livestock (goats, sheep, swine, etc.) are prohibited as 'dangerous animals' under Section 505.18.
View full Lakewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cleveland | Lakewood |
|---|---|---|
| Hens | Typically 4 to 6 allowed | - |
| Roosters | Usually prohibited | - |
| Coop Setback | 25 to 50 feet from neighbors | 3 ft from side/rear lines; 20 ft behind house |
| Livestock | Agricultural zones only | - |
| Code Section | - | LCO Sec. 505.18(b)-(e) |
| Max Hens | - | 6 per lot (hens only, no roosters) |
| Permit Fee / Cap | - | $25 annual; citywide cap of 50 permits |
| Banned Livestock | - | Goats, sheep, swine, horses, roosters, ducks, geese, turkeys |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cleveland FAQ
Can I keep chickens?
Many Ohio cities allow 4 to 6 hens with proper coop setbacks. Roosters are typically prohibited. Check Cleveland code.
What about goats?
Usually restricted to agricultural zones with minimum lot sizes.
Lakewood FAQ
Can I keep backyard chickens in Lakewood?
Yes, but only hens (female chickens), up to six per lot in an R1 or R2 district, and only with an annual $25 permit, proof of a backyard-hen class, and an approved coop. Roosters are prohibited.
Are goats, pigs, or other livestock allowed?
No. Section 505.18(b) lists bovines (goats, sheep), swine (including pot-bellied pigs), horses, and game birds such as roosters, ducks, geese, and turkeys as prohibited dangerous animals.
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