Florida Backyard Chicken Laws: Permits, Limits & Setbacks by County & City
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Can you Have Chickens in Florida?
Yes, backyard chickens are legal in Florida, but there are no statewide rules. Each city and county sets its own regulations on flock size, permits, setbacks, and whether chickens are allowed in residential areas. Many cities allow hens with restrictions, while HOAs may prohibit them entirely.
Are Roosters Allowed in Florida Residential Areas?
In most Florida cities, roosters are not allowed in residential areas due to noise ordinances. While hens are commonly permitted with limits, roosters are typically banned or heavily restricted. Some rural or agricultural zones may allow roosters, depending on local zoning laws.
Table of Contents
Other Florida Backyard Chicken Laws by County & City
Florida Rural & Unincorporated Areas Rules
Florida’s Year-Round Predator Problem
The Florida Reality: Your HOA Almost Always Wins
Permits & Registrations Across Florida
Selling Backyard Eggs in Florida
Florida State Poultry Slaughter Rules
Florida Major Cities Rules
Miami, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 15 hens and 30 chicks | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required from county health unit
Orlando, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required | Setback: 10ft from property lines, 25ft from dwellings
Jacksonville, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required | Setback: 10ft from property lines
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Total ban on poultry within Fort Lauderdale city limits
Tampa, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 8 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Hollywood, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Pompano Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
West Palm Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not allowed on standard residential lots | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required for 1+ acre parcels | Setback: 25ft from property lines
Naples, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Kissimmee, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
⚠️ Important: Florida ordinances may change without notice. Always verify the current rules with your local jurisdiction or HOA before building your coop.
Other Florida Backyard Chicken Laws by City and County
Alachua County, FL
Alachua, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Archer, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Gainesville, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 10 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Not required | Setback: Coop/pen must meet accessory-structure setbacks and be located in rear half of lot | Key Restrictions: Allowed only as accessory use in RSF-1–4, RC, U1, and U2 districts; hens for personal use only; no on-premise sales | Source: gainesvillefl.gov - Section: §30-5.39
Hawthorne, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
High Springs, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
La Crosse, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Micanopy, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Newberry, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Waldo, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 2 hens | Roosters: 1 allowed | Permit: Not required | Setback: Coop/enclosure at least 10ft from side/rear property lines and 40ft from any residence | Key Restrictions: Allowed by right only in Residential Low Density, Residential Medium Density, Center City, and Waldo/301 FLU categories; no commercial raising; chickens/roosters must remain within fenced areas and not in front yards | Source: waldo.municipalcodeonline.com - Section: §7.02.06
Baker County, FL
Glen Saint Mary, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Macclenny, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Bay County, FL
Callaway, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Cedar Grove, FL (Dissolved)
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Laguna Beach, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lower Grand Lagoon, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lynn Haven, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required | Setback: 10ft from property lines
Mexico Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Panama City, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required | Setback: 10ft from property lines
Panama City Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Parker, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Pretty Bayou, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Springfield, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Upper Grand Lagoon, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Bradford County, FL
Brooker, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Hampton, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lawtey, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Starke, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Brevard County, FL
Cape Canaveral, FL
Total ban on poultry within Cape Canaveral city limits
Cocoa, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required | Setback: 10ft from property lines
Cocoa Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within Cocoa Beach city limits
Cocoa West, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Grant-Valkaria, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Indialantic, FL
Total ban on poultry within Indialantic city limits
Indian Harbour Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within Indian Harbour Beach city limits
June Park, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Malabar, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Melbourne, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required | Setback: 10ft from property lines
Melbourne Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within Melbourne Beach city limits
Melbourne Village, FL
Total ban on poultry within Melbourne Village city limits
Merritt Island, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Micco, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Mims, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Palm Bay, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required | Setback: 10ft from property lines
Palm Shores, FL
Total ban on poultry within Palm Shores city limits
Port Saint John, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Rockledge, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required | Setback: 10ft from property lines
Satellite Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within Satellite Beach city limits
Sharpes, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
South Patrick Shores, FL
Total ban on poultry within South Patrick Shores city limits
Titusville, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required | Setback: 10ft from property lines
Viera East, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Viera West, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
West Melbourne, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required | Setback: 10ft from property lines
Broward County, FL
Boulevard Gardens, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Broadview Park, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Coconut Creek, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Cooper City, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Coral Springs, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Dania Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Davie, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Deerfield Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Franklin Park, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Hallandale Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Hillsboro Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Hillsboro Pines, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Ives Estates, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lauderdale Lakes, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lauderhill, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lazy Lake, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lighthouse Point, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Margate, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Miramar, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
North Lauderdale, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Oakland Park, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Parkland, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Pembroke Park, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Pembroke Pines, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Plantation, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Roosevelt Gardens, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Sea Ranch Lakes, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Southwest Ranches, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Sunrise, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Tamarac, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Washington Park, FL
Hen Limit: No hen limit | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
West Park, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Weston, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Wilton Manors, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Calhoun County, FL
Altha, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Blountstown, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Charlotte County, FL
Punta Gorda, FL
Total ban on poultry within Punta Gorda city limits
Citrus County, FL
Crystal River, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Inverness, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Clay County, FL
Green Cove Springs, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Keystone Heights, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Orange Park, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Collier County, FL
Marco Island, FL
Total ban on poultry within Marco Island city limits
Columbia County, FL
Fort White, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lake City, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
DeSoto County, FL
Arcadia, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Dixie County, FL
Cross City, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Horseshoe Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Duval County, FL
Atlantic Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Baldwin, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Jacksonville Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Neptune Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Escambia County, FL
Century, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Pensacola, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required | Setback: 10ft from property lines
Flagler County, FL
Beverly Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within Beverly Beach city limits
Bunnell, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Flagler Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within Flagler Beach city limits
Marineland, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Palm Coast, FL
Total ban on poultry within Palm Coast city limits
Franklin County, FL
Apalachicola, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Carrabelle, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Gadsden County, FL
Chattahoochee, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Greensboro, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Gretna, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Havana, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Midway, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Quincy, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Gilchrist County, FL
Bell, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Fanning Springs, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Trenton, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Glades County, FL
Moore Haven, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Gulf County, FL
Port St. Joe, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Wewahitchka, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Hamilton County, FL
Jasper, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Jennings, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
White Springs, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Hardee County, FL
Bowling Green, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Wauchula, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Zolfo Springs, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Hendry County, FL
Clewiston, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
LaBelle, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Hernando County, FL
Brooksville, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Weeki Wachee, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Highlands County, FL
Avon Park, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lake Placid, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Sebring, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Hillsborough County, FL
Plant City, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Temple Terrace, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Holmes County, FL
Bonifay, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Caryville, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Esto, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Noma, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Ponce de Leon, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Westville, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Indian River County, FL
Fellsmere, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Sebastian, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Vero Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within Vero Beach city limits
Jackson County, FL
Alford, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Bascom, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Campbellton, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Cottondale, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Graceville, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Grand Ridge, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Greenwood, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Jacob City, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Malone, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Marianna, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Sneads, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Jefferson County, FL
Monticello, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lafayette County, FL
Mayo, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lake County, FL
Astatula, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Clermont, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Eustis, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Fruitland Park, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Groveland, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Howey-in-the-Hills, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lady Lake, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Leesburg, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Mascotte, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Minneola, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Montverde, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Mount Dora, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Tavares, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Umatilla, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Lee County, FL
Bonita Springs, FL
Total ban on poultry within Bonita Springs city limits
Cape Coral, FL
Total ban on poultry within Cape Coral city limits
Fort Myers, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Fort Myers Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within Fort Myers Beach city limits
Sanibel, FL
Total ban on poultry within Sanibel city limits
Leon County, FL
Tallahassee, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Levy County, FL
Bronson, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Cedar Key, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Chiefland, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Inglis, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Williston, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Yankeetown, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Liberty County, FL
Bristol, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Madison County, FL
Madison, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Manatee County, FL
Anna Maria, FL
Total ban on poultry within nna Maria city limits
Bradenton, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Bradenton Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within Bradenton Beach city limits
Holmes Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within olmes Beach city limits
Longboat Key, FL
Total ban on poultry within Longboat Key city limits
Palmetto, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Marion County, FL
Belleview, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Dunnellon, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
McIntosh, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Ocala, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Reddick, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Martin County, FL
Jupiter Island, FL
Total ban on poultry within Jupiter Island city limits
Ocean Breeze, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Sewall’s Point, FL
Total ban on poultry within Sewall’s Point city limits
Stuart, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Miami-Dade County, FL
Aventura, FL
Total ban on poultry within Aventura city limits
Bal Harbour, FL
Total ban on poultry within Bal Harbour village limits
Bay Harbor Islands, FL
Total ban on poultry within Bay Harbor Islands town limits
Biscayne Park, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Coral Gables, FL
Total ban on poultry within Coral Gables city limits
Cutler Bay, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Doral, FL
Total ban on poultry within Doral city limits
El Portal, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Florida City, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Golden Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within Golden Beach town limits
Hialeah, FL
Total ban on poultry within Hialeah city limits
Hialeah Gardens, FL
Total ban on poultry within Hialeah Gardens city limits
Homestead, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Indian Creek, FL
Total ban on poultry within Indian Creek village limits
Key Biscayne, FL
Total ban on poultry within Key Biscayne village limits
Medley, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not required
Miami Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within Miami Beach city limits
Miami Gardens, FL
Total ban on poultry within Miami Gardens city limits
Miami Lakes, FL
Total ban on poultry within Miami Lakes town limits
Miami Shores, FL
Total ban on poultry within Miami Shores village limits
Miami Springs, FL
Total ban on poultry within Miami Springs city limits
North Bay Village, FL
Total ban on poultry within North Bay Village city limits
North Miami, FL
Total ban on poultry within North Miami city limits
North Miami Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within North Miami Beach city limits
Opa-locka, FL
Total ban on poultry within Opa-locka city limits
Palmetto Bay, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Pinecrest, FL
Total ban on poultry within Pinecrest village limits
South Miami, FL
Total ban on poultry within South Miami city limits
Sunny Isles Beach, FL
Total ban on poultry within Sunny Isles Beach city limits
Surfside, FL
Total ban on poultry within Surfside town limits
Sweetwater, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Allowed | Permit: Not specified | Setback: 75 feet from any residence or commercial building
Virginia Gardens, FL
Total ban on poultry within Virginia Gardens village limits
West Miami, FL
Total ban on poultry within West Miami city limits
Monroe County, FL
Big Coppitt Key, FL
Status: Not specified in compiled data | Action: Verify local ordinances (county + zoning) before keeping poultry.
Big Pine Key, FL
Status: Not specified in compiled data | Action: Verify local ordinances (county + zoning) before keeping poultry.
Cudjoe Key, FL
Status: Not specified in compiled data | Action: Verify local ordinances (county + zoning) before keeping poultry.
Duck Key, FL
Status: Not specified in compiled data | Action: Verify local ordinances (county + zoning) before keeping poultry.
Islamorada, Village of Islands, FL
Status: Not specified in compiled data | Action: Check Islamorada Code of Ordinances (animals, livestock, fowl) for poultry rules.
Key Colony Beach, FL
Status: Not specified in compiled data | Action: Check Key Colony Beach Code of Ordinances for poultry or livestock sections.
Key Largo, FL
Status: Unincorporated area | Action: Follow Monroe County ordinances and zoning for poultry.
Key West, FL
Status: Not specified in compiled data | Action: Check Key West Code of Ordinances (animals, fowl, livestock) for specific poultry rules.
Layton, FL
Status: Not specified in compiled data | Action: Check Layton Code of Ordinances for poultry or animal‑keeping sections.
Marathon, FL
Status: Not specified in compiled data | Action: Check Marathon Code of Ordinances (animals, fowl, livestock) for poultry rules.
North Key Largo, FL
Status: Unincorporated area | Action: Follow Monroe County ordinances and zoning for poultry.
Stock Island, FL
Status: Unincorporated area | Action: Follow Monroe County ordinances and zoning for poultry.
Tavernier, FL
Status: Unincorporated area | Action: Follow Monroe County ordinances and zoning for poultry.
Nassau County, FL
Callahan, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Fernandina Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Hilliard, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Okaloosa County, FL
Crestview, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required | Setback: At least 30ft from any adjacent residential structure
Destin, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Fort Walton Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Not specified
Laurel Hill, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Mary Esther, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Niceville, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Shalimar, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Valparaiso, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Okeechobee County, FL
Okeechobee, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Orange County, FL
Apopka, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Bay Lake, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Belle Isle, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Edgewood, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Lake Buena Vista, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Maitland, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Ocoee, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Winter Garden, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Winter Park, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Osceola County, FL
St. Cloud, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 6 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required with a $25 fee
Palm Beach County, FL
Boca Raton, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Boynton Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Delray Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Jupiter, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Lake Worth Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Wellington, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Pasco County, FL
Dade City, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 6 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Not required
New Port Richey, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Port Richey, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
San Antonio, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
St. Leo, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Zephyrhills, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Pinellas County, FL
Clearwater, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Dunedin, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Gulfport, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Largo, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Oldsmar, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Pinellas Park, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 10 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Not required
Seminole, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
St. Petersburg, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 8 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Not specified | Setback: Required (distance not specified)
Tarpon Springs, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Treasure Island, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Polk County, FL
Auburndale, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Bartow, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Davenport, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Eagle Lake, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Fort Meade, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Frostproof, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Haines City, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Lake Alfred, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Lake Hamilton, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Lakeland, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required with a $25 fee
Lake Wales, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Mulberry, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Polk City, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Winter Haven, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Putnam County, FL
Crescent City, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Interlachen, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Palatka, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Pomona Park, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Welaka, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Santa Rosa County, FL
Gulf Breeze, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Jay, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Milton, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Sarasota County, FL
North Port, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Sarasota, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Venice, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Seminole County, FL
Altamonte Springs, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Casselberry, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Lake Mary, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Longwood, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Oviedo, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Sanford, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Winter Springs, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
St. Johns County, FL
Hastings, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
St. Augustine, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 6 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
St. Augustine Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
St. Lucie County, FL
Fort Pierce, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 4 hens | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required
Port St. Lucie, FL
Hen Limit: Not allowed | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Not applicable
St. Lucie Village, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Sumter County, FL
Bushnell, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Center Hill, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Coleman, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Webster, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Wildwood, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Suwannee County, FL
Branford, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Live Oak, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Taylor County, FL
Perry, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Union County, FL
Lake Butler, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Raiford, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Worthington Springs, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Volusia County, FL
Daytona Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
DeBary, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
DeLand, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Deltona, FL
Hen Limit: Up to 5 hens (<½ acre) or 10 hens (≥½ acre) | Roosters: Not allowed | Permit: Required ($25)
Edgewater, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Holly Hill, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
New Smyrna Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Oak Hill, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Orange City, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Ormond Beach, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Port Orange, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
South Daytona, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Wakulla County, FL
Sopchoppy, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
St. Marks, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Walton County, FL
DeFuniak Springs, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Freeport, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Paxton, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Washington County, FL
Chipley, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Vernon, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified
Wausau, FL
Hen Limit: Not specified | Roosters: Not specified | Permit: Not specified
Florida Rural & Unincorporated Areas Rules
Unincorporated regions and agricultural districts across Florida generally permit larger flocks and roosters, provided properties meet minimum acreage and setback requirements set by individual county commissions.
Florida’s Year-Round Predator Problem
Heat + humidity + wildlife = the toughest predator environment in the Lower 48.
- Climbers & diggers: Raccoons, opossums, rat snakes, and pythons (yes, real pythons in South Florida).
- Flyers: Red-shouldered hawks, barred owls, and turkey vultures.
- Ground pounders: Bobcats, coyotes, and feral dogs.
- Bonus nightmares: Fire ants that kill chicks overnight and alligators that stroll through chain-link.
Florida-proof minimum: ¼-inch hardware cloth (not ½-inch — snakes), 24-inch buried apron + concrete footer, raccoon-proof latches, hawk netting, and elevated coop floor to stop ants.
The Florida Reality: Your HOA Almost Always Wins
Over 60 % of new Florida homes are built inside deed-restricted communities — the highest percentage in the nation. Even when Miami-Dade or Tampa says “yes” to chickens, your HOA can (and usually does) say “no” — and Florida courts consistently uphold HOA covenants over municipal law.
How to check: Pull your property deed at the county clerk website → search for “animals,” “livestock,” or “fowl.” If it says “no poultry,” you’re out — even on a 1-acre lot.
Permits & Registrations Across Florida
In Florida, "No Permit" doesn't always mean "No Rules." While some major hubs have deregulated, others have added mandatory education requirements.
- Miami-Dade County: $100+ fee. Requires a permit from the County Health Unit and a potential site inspection.
- Orlando & Orange County: $57 permit fee. You must complete the UF/IFAS "Backyard Poultry" class before applying. (Note: Only 130 permits are available in unincorporated Orange County at a time).
- Jacksonville (Duval): Permit Required. You must complete a Poultry Management Seminar offered by the Duval County Extension Office.
- St. Cloud (Osceola): $25 initial fee / $10 annual renewal. Requires a mandatory "Backyard Poultry Basics" class.
- Tampa & Tallahassee: No specific "Chicken Permit" required, but you must still follow strict zoning setbacks (typically 5–20 feet from property lines).
Pro Tip: Even in "No-Permit" cities, code enforcement can still fine you for "Public Nuisance" violations. This usually covers excessive noise, flies, or odors that cross property lines.
Selling Backyard Eggs in Florida
In Florida, small flock owners can sell ungraded, freshly laid eggs directly to friends, neighbors, or at local markets as long as the eggs are kept clean, properly labeled, and stored at safe temperatures. Most small-scale sellers don’t need a special license, but you must follow basic food safety rules and check your city or county’s guidelines to ensure you’re meeting local requirements.
Florida State Poultry Slaughter Rules
Under Florida regulations (aligned with federal USDA Poultry Products Inspection Act — PPIA — exemptions and regulated through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services — FDACS — Limited Poultry and Egg Farm Operation Program), backyard poultry owners follow these guidelines statewide (no separate mandatory state poultry inspection program exists for small-scale personal use, but an Annual Food Permit is required for any exempt sales or processing):
- Personal Use: Fully exempt and legal. You may slaughter birds you raised yourself for your household, family, non-paying guests, or employees without inspection or additional permitting required, as long as sanitary conditions are followed and the product is not sold or distributed.
- Commercial Sale: Restricted. Home-slaughtered poultry meat cannot be sold unless processed in a USDA-inspected facility or under a federal small-producer exemption (e.g., Producer/Grower ≤1,000 birds/year or ≤20,000 birds/year with limits on sales/distribution and sanitary practices). Most backyard flocks do not qualify for resale; exempt sales are limited (e.g., direct to consumers or approved venues under the FDACS Limited Poultry Program), and an Annual Food Permit is required for any exempt processing/sale operations.
- Humane Standards: Required. Personal processing must follow humane handling practices under state animal welfare laws and sanitary conditions to ensure products are sound, clean, and fit for human food.
- Nuisance Laws: Enforced locally. On-site slaughter in residential areas may be restricted or prohibited due to noise, odors, visibility, waste, or public nuisance ordinances — even where chicken ownership is permitted; local health departments or zoning often enforce these quickly.
Florida accepts federal exemptions (1,000- or 20,000-bird limits) but requires FDACS permitting and compliance for exempt operations involving any sales. For official guidance, review USDA FSIS Poultry Exemptions or visit the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Limited Poultry and Egg Farms page.
Essential Guides for Backyard Chicken Success
Once your local Florida municipality approves your backyard flock—especially in cities where lot sizes and setback rules can be strict—explore compact coop designs to make the most of smaller suburban yards while staying compliant with local zoning codes.
How do I raise backyard chickens successfully?
Building your coop? Use our Step-by-Step DIY Chicken Coop Guide to construct a durable, well‑ventilated coop designed to handle Florida’s intense summer heat, heavy rainfall, hurricane‑season winds, and year‑round predator pressure.
Already raising chickens? Set your flock up for success in the Sunshine State. From choosing heat‑tolerant breeds that thrive in Florida’s subtropical climate to managing moisture, preventing heat stress, and protecting birds from predators like raccoons, bobcats, snakes, and hawks, our guides help you maintain a healthy, neighbor‑friendly flock.
Complete Resource: View Our Ultimate Backyard Chicken Management Guide
Official Sources
1. When available, we reference Florida municipal codes from verified platforms like library.municode.com, ecode360.com, and local municipal government websites at the time of publication.
2. FDACS Poultry Program — voluntary NPIP registration strongly encouraged.