Chickens & Livestock: McKeesport vs Pittsburgh
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between McKeesport, PA and Pittsburgh, PA?
McKeesport and Pittsburgh have similar restriction levels.
McKeesport, PA
Allegheny County
Backyard chickens subject to McKeesport zoning; typically allowed in lower-density residential with coop setbacks. Roosters often prohibited due to noise. No state preemption.
View full McKeesport rules →Pittsburgh, PA
Allegheny County
Pittsburgh allows up to 5 chickens or ducks on lots of 2,000+ sq ft, plus 1 bird per extra 1,000 sq ft. Roosters prohibited. Two dehorned goats permitted. $70 zoning permit required.
View full Pittsburgh rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | McKeesport | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | None preempting locals | - |
| Roosters | Often banned | Prohibited |
| Coop Setback | 10-25 ft typical | - |
| Flock Size | 4-6 hens typical | - |
| Slaughter | Prohibited on residential | - |
| Hens Allowed | - | Up to 5 on 2,000+ sq ft lot |
| Additional Birds | - | +1 per extra 1,000 sq ft |
| Goats | - | 2 dehorned goats on 2,000+ sq ft |
| Permit | - | $70 zoning permit + site plan |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
McKeesport FAQ
Can I keep backyard chickens in McKeesport?
Contact McKeesport Code Enforcement. Chickens are typically allowed with coop setbacks; roosters are usually prohibited.
How many hens can I keep?
Most similar PA cities permit 4-6 hens per residential lot; verify the exact limit with the city.
Pittsburgh FAQ
Can I keep chickens in my Pittsburgh backyard?
Yes. You need at least 2,000 sq ft of lot area, a $70 zoning permit with site plan, and an enclosed coop that meets accessory-structure setback rules. Up to 5 hens are allowed on the minimum lot size, with no roosters permitted.
Are goats allowed in Pittsburgh residential areas?
Two dehorned goats are allowed on lots of 2,000 sq ft or more. Additional goats require a lot of at least 10,000 sq ft. Goats must be sheltered and contained on the property at all times.
Compare other topics
See how McKeesport and Pittsburgh 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