Chickens & Livestock: Foster Center vs Providence
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Foster Center, RI and Providence, RI?
Providence has fewer restrictions than Foster Center.
Foster Center, RI
Providence County
Urban Providence County cities (Providence, Central Falls, Pawtucket) restrict or prohibit backyard chickens. Smithfield, Lincoln, Cumberland, and Johnston allow hens in residential zones with coop setbacks. No roosters in residential.
View full Foster Center rules →Providence, RI
Providence County
Providence allows limited backyard hens in residential zones under Chapter 4 of the City Code, but roosters and most livestock are prohibited inside city limits without a special permit from Animal Control.
View full Providence rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Foster Center | Providence |
|---|---|---|
| Providence | Restricted, coop 25 ft setback | - |
| Central Falls | Prohibited dense zones | - |
| Suburban | 6 to 12 hens allowed | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited residential | Prohibited citywide |
| Right to Farm | RIGL §2-23 | - |
| Code Chapter | - | Providence Ch. 4 |
| Livestock | - | Prohibited residential zones |
| Enforcement | - | Providence Animal Control |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Foster Center FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Providence?
Providence permits a limited number of hens in certain residential zones with coop setbacks, but not in all districts. Check your specific zoning designation and apply for any required permit. Roosters are prohibited.
What about suburban towns like Cumberland or Smithfield?
These towns are more permissive and typically allow 6 to 12 hens in residential zones with coop setbacks of 25 to 50 feet from property lines. No roosters are permitted in residential zones.
Providence FAQ
Can I keep backyard hens in Providence?
Yes, a small number of hens are allowed in residential yards if coops are clean, enclosed, and set back from neighbors per Chapter 4.
Are roosters allowed?
No. Roosters are prohibited within Providence city limits because of noise complaints and Chapter 4 livestock rules.
Compare other topics
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