Is Backyard Chickens Legal in Vermont? (2026)
Yes — Backyard Chickens are legal in Vermont as of 2026.
Law changed in 2023: There have been no significant statewide legislative changes since 2023. Local ordinances are the primary source of regulation and are subject to change by town boards.
Quick Answer
Backyard Chickens are legal in Vermont. There have been no significant statewide legislative changes since 2023.
What the Law Says
Vermont has a strong tradition of local control, and there is no state law on backyard chickens. Local ordinances, if any, would apply.
— 6 V.S.A. § 4857
| 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. Local ordinances are the primary source of regulation and are subject to change by town boards.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is handled by local municipalities, with towns like South Burlington and Williston requiring permits and setting specific rules. The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets (VAAFM) oversees statewide poultry health and inspection exemptions.
A common mistake is failing to obtain a required local permit. Another is not adhering to local ordinances that often ban roosters and limit the number of hens.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Vermont. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Backyard Chickens are legal in Vermont. You can keeping backyard chickens without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Vermont 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. Vermont 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 Vermont?
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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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