Is Backyard Chickens Legal in Virginia? (2026)
Yes — Backyard Chickens are legal in Virginia 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 city councils.
Quick Answer
Backyard Chickens are legal in Virginia. There have been no significant statewide legislative changes since 2023.
What the Law Says
Virginia has no state law on backyard chickens. Regulations are set at the county and city level, with varying rules on flock size and permits.
— Va. Code Ann. § 3.2-6000
| 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 city councils.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is handled by local municipalities, with cities like Richmond and Harrisonburg requiring permits and setting specific rules. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) oversees statewide animal health and import regulations.
A common mistake is failing to obtain a required city 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 Virginia. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Backyard Chickens are legal in Virginia. You can keeping backyard chickens without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Virginia 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. Virginia 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
Is keeping backyard chickens legal in Virginia?
Can you keep backyard chickens in Virginia?
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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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