Chickens & Livestock: Gaithersburg vs Rockville
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Rockville, MD?
Gaithersburg and Rockville have similar restriction levels.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Gaithersburg allows up to 6 hens on residential properties under Chapter 4 (Animals and Fowl). Chickens must be housed at least 30 feet from neighboring homes and 5 feet from lot lines. Roosters are prohibited. Flock registration with the Maryland Department of Agriculture is required.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
Rockville permits up to five hens on single-family lots with a $25 permit under Ordinance 12-15. No roosters. Coops must be 5 feet from property lines and 40 feet from neighbors.
View full Rockville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Rockville |
|---|---|---|
| Hen Limit | 6 hens maximum | - |
| Coop Setback | 30 feet from neighbors, 5 feet from lot line | 5 ft from property line |
| Roosters | Prohibited | - |
| Registration | MD Dept of Agriculture required | - |
| Code | Chapter 4 | - |
| Limit | - | 5 hens maximum, no roosters |
| Permit | - | $25 city permit required |
| Neighbor Distance | - | 40 ft from adjacent homes |
| Townhouses | - | Chickens not allowed |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Gaithersburg?
Yes, up to 6 hens are allowed. The coop must be at least 30 feet from neighboring homes and 5 feet from lot lines. Roosters are prohibited. Register your flock with the Maryland Department of Agriculture.
Can I keep goats or other livestock?
Livestock such as goats, pigs, and cattle are generally not permitted in standard residential zones. Agricultural zoning may allow livestock with appropriate setbacks and conditions.
Rockville FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Rockville?
Yes, if you live in a single-family detached home. You need a $25 permit and can keep up to five hens. No roosters are allowed. Coops must be at least 5 feet from property lines and 40 feet from neighboring homes.
Can I keep goats or other livestock?
No. Larger livestock including goats, sheep, horses, cattle, and pigs are not permitted in residential zoning districts in Rockville.
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