Is Backyard Chickens Legal in New York? (2026)
Yes — Backyard Chickens are legal in New York as of 2026.
Law changed in 2023: There have been no significant statewide legislative changes since 2023. A bill (A5139) was introduced in 2025 to allow all residents to own backyard hens without a license, but it has not been passed.
Quick Answer
Backyard Chickens are legal in New York. There have been no significant statewide legislative changes since 2023.
What the Law Says
New York has no state law on backyard chickens. Regulations are a local matter, with New York City having its own specific rules.
— NYC Health Code § 161.19
| 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. A bill (A5139) was introduced in 2025 to allow all residents to own backyard hens without a license, but it has not been passed.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is handled by local municipalities, with New York City having its own health code and other towns like Henrietta and Wilton requiring permits. The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets oversees statewide animal health and import regulations.
A common mistake is not being aware of local ordinances, as rules vary significantly between New York City and other municipalities. Another is not adhering to local rooster bans and flock size limits where they exist.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across New York. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Backyard Chickens are legal in New York. You can keeping backyard chickens without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
New York 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. New York 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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Can you keep backyard chickens in New York?
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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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