If you’re thinking about keeping backyard chickens in West Virginia, you need to check local rules first. West Virginia does not have a statewide law that limits backyard hens—each city, town, or county may set its own rules or leave it up to zoning boards. Some places welcome hens with minimal rules; others require permits or limit the number. Here’s a guide to common patterns and key local rules.
Common Themes Across West Virginia
- Roosters are usually banned in residential areas due to noise concerns.
- Most places limit hens to around 4–6 per household, though larger lots may allow more.
- Zoning restrictions often require permits, especially in cities or denser neighborhoods.
- Coops and pens must meet setback requirements—often 10–25 ft from property lines or homes.
- Chickens must stay in enclosed and secure coops—no free ranging.
- Coops must be predator-proof, ventilated, clean, and odor-free.
- Commercial uses like egg sales or breeding are usually prohibited.
- Neighbor complaints may result in permit revocation or fines.
County & City Examples
Kanawha County (Charleston)
In Charleston, chickens are allowed in single-family zones with up to six hens. Roosters are banned. A zoning variance or permit may be required depending on neighborhood type. Coops must be placed in rear yards, generally at least 20 ft from the nearest neighbor’s dwelling and 10 ft from property edges. Coops must remain clean, secure, and not attract flies or rodents.
Jefferson County (Martinsburg)
Jefferson County zoning may allow up to six hens on lots of at least ½ acre without extra approval. Smaller lots may require a conditional use permit. Roosters are prohibited. Coops must stay in rear yards and meet set back rules (often 15 ‑ 20 ft). Feed and coop must be managed cleanly, and no chickens may be kept inside dwellings.
Monongalia County (Morgantown)
Morgantown allows chickens via zoning ordinance amendments: up to four hens per lot, no roosters, and a special residential permit is required. Coops must be fenced and kept in the backyard only. Coops and runs must be set back at least 15 ft from any neighboring dwelling and property line. Chicken areas must remain sanitary and odor-free, with feed stored in closed containers.
Berkeley County (Martinsburg urban area)
In unincorporated areas, residents may keep up to six hens without a permit if the parcel is at least half an acre. Smaller parcels require zoning approval. Roosters are not allowed. Structures must meet rear-yard setback rules, typically around 15 ft. Coops should be secured and cleaned regularly, and chickens must stay confined.
Ohio County (Wheeling)
Wheeling allows chickens under its city code. Permits may be required for up to four hens; larger flocks need special zoning permission. Roosters are banned in residential districts. Coops must stay in rear yards at least 15 ft from the nearest residence, and enclosures must be secure and sanitary.
Cabell County (Huntington)
In Huntington, city zoning allows up to six hens with a conditional use permit. Roosters are banned. Chickens must stay in fenced, enclosed coops, located in the rear yard. Coops must follow setback requirements (typically 15 ft from property lines or adjacent dwellings) and be well-maintained.
Clay and Greenbrier Counties (Rural areas)
In these rural counties, chicken keeping is often allowed on private property without permits. Many farms and homes keep hens freely as long as they meet basic health and nuisance standards. Roosters may be allowed on large rural parcels, and coops must be secured and kept out of neighbors’ view.
Harrison County (Clarksburg)
Clarksburg zoning allows up to six hens on lots over ¾ acre. Roosters are not permitted in residential zones. Smaller lots require special use approval. Coops and runs must be fenced in rear or side yards with setbacks around 10 ft. Enclosures must be tidy and not attract flies or odor complaints.
Typical County Ordinances
Many counties without city zoning simply follow general rural livestock rules: buildings must be set back at least 25 ft from property lines, flocks must stay confined, and roosters may be restricted in denser parts. Nuisance laws—related to noise or odor—apply in every county.
Checklist Before Keeping Chickens in West Virginia
- Check if you’re in city/town limits or rural/unincorporated county land.
- Contact city or county zoning or code enforcement office for local chicken rules.
- Ask how many hens are allowed, and whether roosters are banned or limited.
- Learn whether permits or conditional use approvals are needed.
- Review coop and pen setback rules—often 10–25 ft from dwellings and lines.
- Make sure coop and run are predator-proof, well ventilated, clean, and secure.
- Store feed safely in covered containers; manage manure to prevent odors.
- Keep chickens confined in enclosures—no free-ranging unless local code allows.
- Confirm that egg sales or breeding are not allowed without commercial permits.
- Check if complaints or violations may result in fines or permit loss.
- If part of HOA or restrictive covenant, ensure chickens are allowed.
Why Chicken Laws Matter
Chicken rules protect public health and neighborhood peace. Coops placed too close to property lines can cause odor, attract pests, and disturb neighbors. Banning roosters reduces noise. Permit systems and zoning help ensure condition and cleanliness. By following local rules and being a respectful neighbor, your chickens stay safe—and your community stays happy.
Conclusion
Keeping hens in West Virginia is definitely possible—but rules depend on where you live. Cities like Charleston, Morgantown, Wheeling, Huntington, and others each handle chicken regulations differently. In rural counties, flocks are often allowed freely with minimal oversight. Before you order chicks, check with your local code office. Build or place your coop carefully, follow setback and sanitation rules, avoid breeding or sales, and ensure your birds stay confined. Then you can enjoy clean, legal backyard chicken keeping—and fresh eggs too!
Best wishes starting your West Virginia flock!