Apply for a Backyard Chicken Permit

Step 1.Review the rules

• The city issues no more than 100 permits (on a first-come, first-served basis).
• You can have no more than 4 chickens (hens only).
• Roosters, ducks, geese, turkeys, peafowl, pigeons or other birds are not allowed.
• You must live in a single-family home. Chickens are not allowed on duplex, triplex, townhome or multifamily properties. They are also not permitted in community gardens.
• Chickens must be secured at all times and not allowed to run free.
• Chickens must be kept for personal use. Breeding and selling chickens, eggs, feathers or manure is prohibited.

Step 2.Follow the coop requirements

• The covered chicken coop, chicken tractor or fenced pen/run area must be secured to protect the chickens from predators. Chicken wire is not allowed.
• The coop must be located behind the house in the backyard.
• The coop must be at least 20 feet away from neighboring homes, at least five feet away from your house and at least five feet away from the property line.
• The coop and run area must be less than 50 square feet.
• Coops must be tied down for wind resistance.

Step 3.Take a class

You are required to take a University of Florida Agricultural Extension Office class that covers:

• Chicken nutrition
• Chicken breeds
• Biosecurity (keeping you and your birds healthy)
• Egg production
• Proper coop construction

Classes are $20 per household.

Sign up for a Class

Step 4.Complete an application

You will need to submit photos of the proposed site, a site plan and proof of class completion.

Fill out the Form

Step 5.We'll review your application

We'll email you within one business day to discuss permit availability. If approved, you will need to pay a $50 permit fee.