Harrisburg, PA Chicken Laws: Hens, Roosters, Permits and Coop Rules

Coop Ready Pennsylvania Harrisburg

Larger lots only

Only on large lots. Harrisburg allows poultry only on lots of at least 40,000 sq ft, with the coop 75 ft from every lot line, which rules out almost all city home lots.

Poultry, including chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys and pigeons, may be kept only on lots of at least 40,000 sq ft. Birds may not run loose, and the owner must prevent odor, waste build-up and insects.

Hen limit

10 birds per 40,000 sq ft of lot (lots of 40,000 sq ft or more only)

Roosters

Not named in the code (limits apply to all poultry)

Permit

No

Coop placement

Pen, shelter or enclosure at least 75 ft from every lot line

Checked against city code We read the official code section linked below for every fact on this page.

Read the official Harrisburg rules ↗ Checked October 2026.

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Backyard chicken questions in Harrisburg

How many chickens can I have in Harrisburg?

The hen limit in Harrisburg: 10 birds per 40,000 sq ft of lot (lots of 40,000 sq ft or more only).

Are roosters allowed in Harrisburg?

Harrisburg's code does not name roosters; the same 10-bird limit per 40,000 sq ft applies to all poultry.

Do I need a permit for backyard chickens in Harrisburg?

No. Harrisburg does not require a permit, but you need a lot of at least 40,000 sq ft.

How far does a chicken coop have to be from my neighbor in Harrisburg?

Where the coop can go in Harrisburg: pen, shelter or enclosure at least 75 ft from every lot line.

Can my HOA ban chickens if Harrisburg allows them?

Yes. HOA rules, deed restrictions and leases can be stricter than city code. Read yours before you build.

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Coop Ready is a planning aid, not legal advice. City codes change, and zoning, HOA rules and your exact parcel can change what is allowed. Confirm with Harrisburg before you build.