Chickens & Livestock: Columbus vs Westerville
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Columbus, OH and Westerville, OH?
Columbus and Westerville have similar restriction levels.
Columbus, OH
Franklin County
Franklin County unincorporated areas permit poultry and livestock on agricultural-zoned parcels without restriction per ORC §519.21. Residential-zoned properties are subject to township-level restrictions which vary by township.
View full Columbus rules →Westerville, OH
Franklin County
Westerville allows up to 4 hens on residential lots with a permit. No roosters. Coops must be setback at least 25 feet from neighboring structures. The city's family-oriented suburbs have embraced backyard chicken keeping.
View full Westerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Columbus | Westerville |
|---|---|---|
| Ag Zoning | Unrestricted (ORC §519.21) | - |
| Residential | Township rules apply | - |
| Health | County health inspections | - |
| Licensing | Not required for poultry | - |
| Hens Allowed | - | 4 maximum |
| Roosters | - | Prohibited |
| Permit | - | Required |
| Coop Setback | - | 25 ft from neighbors |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Columbus FAQ
Can I keep chickens?
Many Ohio cities allow 4 to 6 hens with proper coop setbacks. Roosters are typically prohibited. Check Franklin County code.
What about goats?
Usually restricted to agricultural zones with minimum lot sizes.
Westerville FAQ
Can I keep chickens?
Many Ohio cities allow 4 to 6 hens with proper coop setbacks. Roosters are typically prohibited. Check Westerville code.
What about goats?
Usually restricted to agricultural zones with minimum lot sizes.
Compare other topics
See how Columbus and Westerville compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool