In Henrico County, raising chickens in your backyard is possible—but only under certain zoning conditions and with proper permits. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know: County zoning rules, Conditional Use Permits (CUPs), coop requirements, setbacks, enforcement processes, and community context.
1. Is Chicken-Keeping Allowed?
Yes — but not universally. Chickens are officially permitted only in A-1 agricultural districts by right. In all typical residential zones (R-0, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, and their variants), chicken-keeping is only permitted if you obtain a Conditional Use Permit (CUP).
2. How Many Hens Are Allowed? Rooster Policy?
A CUP may authorize the keeping of up to 6 hens (female-only). Roosters are strictly prohibited. This limit applies across residential zones under CUP approval.
3. Enclosure & Setback Requirements
Under residential zoning, your coop must be in the rear yard only, enclosed (coop plus run), and meet location requirements:
- Typically, a minimum total enclosed area of 30 square feet (coop + run).
- Minimum 25-foot side-yard setback from adjacent property lines.
- Required rear-yard setbacks that align with the existing zoning—often about 40 feet or more.
These rules are designed to minimize visual impact, noise, and odor concerns for neighboring properties.
4. Sample Case: ORDINANCE (April 2024)
One recent CUP application involved a homeowner requesting approval to keep up to six hens on a 0.27-acre R-3 lot. The plan included a 3×4-foot coop inside a 6×9-foot enclosed run. To comply, the coop had to be:
- At least 25 feet from side lot lines
- At least 40 feet from the rear lot lines
- At least 10 feet from the main dwelling
- At least 6 feet from any accessory building
The permit was conditioned on screening requirements, and sanitation measures (e.g., proper feed storage, composting or weekly removal of droppings, and pest control inspections) to protect public health and neighborhood comfort.
5. Sanitation & Pest Prevention
Henrico’s CUP conditions typically include:
- Feed must be stored indoors or in sealed containers to deter rodents.
- Waste (droppings) must be composted responsibly or removed weekly, and covered in the meantime.
- A pest-control inspection report is often required within 30 days of bringing birds onsite.
These conditions are strictly enforced in the CUP to avoid issues with odor, vermin, or health hazards.
6. Permit Process & Enforcement
To keep chickens in non-agricultural zones, follow these steps:
- Submit a formal CUP application to Planning.
- Include a detailed site plan showing coop/run placement and property boundaries.
- Attend a public hearing before the Board of Zoning Appeals.
- If approved, adhere strictly to the plot and coop design as approved.
- Comply with sanitation, feed, and pest inspection conditions.
If residents keep chickens without a CUP or violate conditions, Code Enforcement may issue notices and fines. Enforcement aims for voluntary compliance first, backed by follow-up if needed.
7. Citizen Commentary & Local Concerns
“No more than six hens may be kept on the property. Roosters are prohibited. The hens must be kept within a covered enclosure that includes a coop and an enclosed run.… The coop and the enclosed run must have a combined minimum enclosed area of 30 square feet. The enclosure must not be located in a front or side yard, must not be within 25 feet of a side lot line, and must meet the rear yard setback that applies to the dwelling.”
This firsthand summary from a local forum closely matches official zoning guidelines and speaks to neighborhood experience.
8. Summary Table: At-a-Glance Requirements
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Allowed Zone | A-1 (agricultural) without permit; other zones require CUP |
| Maximum Hens | Up to 6 (with CUP) |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Enclosure Location | Rear yard only |
| Minimum Enclosed Area | 30 sq ft (coop + run) |
| Setbacks | 25 ft side; ~40 ft rear; 10 ft from home; 6 ft from accessory building |
| Sanitation | Indoor or sealed feed storage, weekly droppings removal or compost, pest inspection |
9. Best Practices for Residents
If you’re planning to apply for a CUP in Henrico:
- Confirm your zoning category and whether you’re in A-1 or a residential zone.
- Draw a scaled site plan with all required setbacks and coop details.
- Design your coop/run combo to meet the 30-sq-ft minimum, with secure predator protection.
- Plan for rigorous sanitation: sealed feed containers, composting or pickup plans, pest inspection.
- Engage with neighbors early—transparency and goodwill help during public hearings.
- Maintain the coop—and follow the exact plan as approved. Any change requires a new permit.
10. Final Thoughts
Henrico County permits backyard hens—but only under controlled conditions. It requires a Conditional Use Permit and adherence to strict zoning, coop, and sanitation standards. While the process may feel cumbersome, successful applicants enjoy the rewards of urban agriculture without causing nuisance or conflict. Thorough research, thoughtful planning, and community-minded practices will give you the best chance of approval and a harmonious flock in your backyard.