Chickens & Livestock: Penn Hills vs Pittsburgh
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Penn Hills, PA and Pittsburgh, PA?
Penn Hills and Pittsburgh have similar restriction levels.
Penn Hills, PA
Allegheny County
Backyard chickens allowed on larger residential lots in Penn Hills with setbacks. Roosters generally prohibited or restricted due to noise. Coops must meet accessory-structure rules.
View full Penn Hills 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 | Penn Hills | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Lot | Typically 1 acre for livestock | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited in R-1/R-2 | Prohibited |
| Coop Setback | 25 ft from dwellings | - |
| Permit | Check with zoning | $70 zoning permit + site plan |
| State Rule | PDA biosecurity guidance | - |
| 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 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Penn Hills FAQ
Can I keep backyard chickens in Penn Hills?
Only on larger lots. Penn Hills zoning (Chapter 27) classifies chickens as livestock, typically requiring a 1-acre minimum. Coops need a zoning permit and must meet accessory-structure setbacks.
Are roosters allowed in Penn Hills?
Generally no in R-1/R-2 districts. Roosters are treated as a nuisance due to crowing and are commonly prohibited; Code Enforcement can cite under the township noise nuisance rule.
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.
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