Is Backyard Chickens Legal in Maryland? (2026)
Yes — Backyard Chickens are legal in Maryland as of 2026.
Law changed in 2023: There have been no significant statewide legislative changes since 2023. The focus remains on flock registration for disease control and local ordinance compliance.
Quick Answer
Backyard Chickens are legal in Maryland. There have been no significant statewide legislative changes since 2023.
What the Law Says
Maryland has no state law on backyard chickens; regulations are set at the county and city level, with varying rules on flock size and permits.
— Md. Code, Agric. § 3-804
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State Regulations | Legal under state law; local ordinances vary widely |
| Local Ordinance Rules | Legal to sell chickens and supplies |
| Violation Penalties | Violations of local ordinances may result in fines or required removal of chickens. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
There have been no significant statewide legislative changes since 2023. The focus remains on flock registration for disease control and local ordinance compliance.
Enforcement Reality
The Maryland Department of Agriculture requires all backyard flocks to be registered. Local jurisdictions like Anne Arundel and Montgomery County have their own specific ordinances regarding flock size, coop placement, and rooster prohibitions.
The most common mistake is failing to register the flock with the state. Another is not being aware of local rules, such as lot size requirements and the universal ban on roosters in most residential areas.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Maryland. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Backyard Chickens are legal in Maryland. You can keeping backyard chickens without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Maryland vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, keeping backyard chickens is fully legal in 41 states, restricted in 9, and illegal in 0. Maryland falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Backyard Chickens:
Frequently Asked Questions
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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