Chickens & Livestock: Somerville vs Wakefield
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Somerville, MA and Wakefield, MA?
Wakefield has fewer restrictions than Somerville.
Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville permits a limited number of backyard hens by permit with strict coop setbacks and no roosters, reflecting the city's dense urban fabric and small lot sizes.
View full Somerville rules →Wakefield, MA
Middlesex County
Chicken and livestock rules vary by Middlesex town. Urban cities like Cambridge, Somerville, and Medford allow small flocks with permits; suburbs like Lexington and Concord allow larger flocks with setbacks.
View full Wakefield rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Somerville | Wakefield |
|---|---|---|
| Hens allowed | Typically up to 6 by permit | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited | Banned urban/suburban |
| Coop setback | 10 ft lot line, 25 ft dwellings | - |
| Other livestock | Not permitted in residential | - |
| Permit issuer | ISD and Board of Health | - |
| Urban max | - | 6 hens typical |
| Suburban setback | - | 25-50 feet |
| Right to Farm | - | Many rural towns adopted |
| Permit needed | - | Yes in most cities |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Somerville FAQ
Can I keep goats or pigs?
No. Somerville zoning does not allow livestock beyond limited backyard poultry on residential lots.
Do I need neighbor approval?
You typically need to provide written notice to abutters, and concerns are reviewed by the Board of Health before a permit issues.
Wakefield FAQ
Can I have backyard chickens in Cambridge?
Yes, up to 6 hens with a permit from Inspectional Services. Roosters are prohibited.
Are goats allowed in Middlesex County?
Only in rural towns on sufficiently large lots. Most suburbs and cities prohibit goats and other livestock.
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