Backyard Chickens Permit

On April 23, 2019, City Council amended Section 15-2-24 of the City Code, commonly referred to as the "Chicken Ordinance" to increase the number of permitted chickens from four to six. Residents, who meet requirements, may apply for a permit to keep chickens within city limits.

General Requirements, Terms & Conditions to Keep Backyard Chickens

• Harrisonburg City Code Section 15-2-24 (regulations to keep chickens)

[257KB] Application to Keep Chickens

[254KB] Solicitud para la crianza de pollos

Steps to Apply for a (Backyard) Chicken License

1. Complete the application and required documentation.

   Online: Submit a new application or renew a chicken license online via the LAMA Permit Portal. See the LAMA Guide for more information.

   Via E-mail: Submit the application (linked above) and required documentation to permits@harrisonburgva.gov

   The $25.00 fee may be mailed to Planning and Zoning Division, Department of Community Development, 409 South Main Street, 2nd Floor, Harrisonburg, VA 22801.

   In person or mail: Submit or mail the completed application (linked above), required documentation, and $25.00 fee to the Planning and Zoning Division, Department of Community Development, 409 South Main Street, 2nd Floor, Harrisonburg, VA 22801.

   Required documentation includes:

   Site layout showing proposed location of pen and confirmation of setbacks from property lines and the setback from streams, tributaries, ditches, swales, stormwater management facilities, drop-inlets, or other storm drainage. See City Code for required setback distances.

   Information or drawing of enclosed and covered pen that contains at least 4 square feet per bird.

   Verification of Virginia Livestock Premises Registration. Register here.

2. Planning and Zoning Division will send accepted application to Animal Care and Control. Animal Care and Control will visit the property. If approved, the Planning and Zoning Division will email a Chicken Permit to the owner. Please note the chicken pen must be erected on the property for the Animal Control Officer to inspect during their visit.
3. The Chicken Permit shall be displayed on the chicken pen at all times.
4. The permit is valid for one (1) year and must be renewed annually to continue to keep chickens.

Resources 

• US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Resources on Avian Health and Disease
  • Backyard Biosecurity Flyer [331KB]
  • 2022 Detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza 
  • Defend the Flock Program - free tools and resources to help poultry producers and backyard flock owners follow property biosecurity practices, which helps keep birds healthy and reduces the risk of infectious diseases. 
  • Printable Resources
  • Recomendaciones de bioseguridad