Chickens & Livestock: Rockville vs Takoma Park
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Rockville, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Takoma Park has fewer restrictions than Rockville.
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 →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Up to six hens allowed without a special permit, reflecting Takoma Park's progressive urban agriculture stance. Roosters prohibited. Other livestock generally not permitted.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rockville | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| Limit | 5 hens maximum, no roosters | - |
| Permit | $25 city permit required | - |
| Coop Setback | 5 ft from property line | - |
| Neighbor Distance | 40 ft from adjacent homes | - |
| Townhouses | Chickens not allowed | - |
| Hens Allowed | - | Up to 6 without special permit |
| Roosters | - | Prohibited |
| Permit Required | - | No special permit for up to 6 hens |
| Other Livestock | - | Generally not permitted in residential zones |
| Slaughter | - | Not permitted on residential property |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Takoma Park FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Takoma Park?
Yes. Residents may keep up to six hens without a special permit. Roosters are prohibited. Coops must be sanitary and set back from property lines.
Can I keep goats or other livestock?
Generally no. Takoma Park residential zones are urban classifications that do not permit goats, sheep, pigs, or cattle. Chickens (hens only) and bees are the primary permitted urban agriculture animals.
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