Thinking about keeping backyard chickens in Mississippi? There is no statewide rule—local governments decide. Most cities or counties limit hens, often ban roosters, regulate coops and allow or require permits. This guide explains how it works in several cities and counties, in simple English.
Statewide Overview
Mississippi relies on local city or county ordinances to regulate poultry. The state Board of Animal Health oversees disease testing or commercial sales. Different jurisdictions may allow anywhere from two hens up to no limit, some require permits, and some ban chickens entirely. Always check your city or county zoning or animal control rules.
Jackson (Hinds County)
- Often allows up to **6 hens**, depending on neighborhood zoning.
- Roosters are usually **not allowed** in city limits.
- Coops must be enclosed, sanitary, and chickens must not run at large.
- Local codes prohibit animals roaming freely—coops must contain birds.
- Permits or license may be required depending on zone.
Biloxi (Harrison County)
- Common rule: up to **2 hens per lot**, **no roosters allowed**.
- Housing must meet setbacks, be sanitary, and enclosed.
- Additional birds may require a permit or neighbor consent.
Gulfport (Harrison County)
- Basic allowance: **2 hens per lot**, **no roosters**.
- Want more? Apply for a permit through zoning for a larger flock.
- Larger flocks may require site plans, proper coop structures, or setbacks.
Hattiesburg (Forrest County)
- Many areas allow **hens with no limit** under zoning rules.
- Roosters typically **not permitted** on residential lots.
- Permit usually required to keep chickens—even if no limit.
- Coop structures, distance to neighbors, and cleanliness regulated.
Jackson (Rankin County suburbs, e.g. Flowood, Brandon)
- Residential zones generally **do not allow chickens**.
- Only in certain agricultural zones (A‑2) may small flocks be allowed if the board approves.
- Roosters are not permitted in typical suburban areas.
Meridian (Lauderdale County)
- No official stated limit on hens, but permit is required.
- Roosters are **not allowed** in residential zones.
- Housing must meet sanitary, setback, and zoning standards.
Olive Branch (DeSoto County)
- Residents may keep up to **10 hens** with permit.
- Roosters prohibited in residential areas.
- Coops must be spaced properly, enclosed and clean.
Pearl (Rankin County)
- Standard rule: **2 hens per lot**, **no roosters** allowed.
- More birds require a permit approval.
- Coop must meet zoning, setback, and sanitation rules.
Southaven (DeSoto County)
- No official limit on hens—but permit is required.
- Roosters are not permitted in residential zoning.
- Zoning rules set coop location standards, cleanliness, and limits based on lot size.
Tupelo (Lee County)
- No official hen limit stated; permit required.
- Roosters are banned in residential areas.
- Housing must follow setback, site plan and cleanliness expectations.
Other Counties & Rural Areas
- Many rural counties have few or no restrictions if zoning is agricultural.
- Large flocks and roosters may be allowed depending on county board zoning.
- County rules vary—some require permits for coop structures; others are more lenient.
Common Themes Across Mississippi
- Many cities allow only 2–6 hens in standard residential zones.
- Roosters are almost always prohibited in urban and suburban areas.
- Permits or zoning approvals are common for keeping more than a couple of hens.
- Coops must be enclosed, tidy, and poultry must not roam freely.
- Rural and agricultural-zoned lots may gain more leniency through zoning approval.
- HOAs or neighborhood covenants often impose stricter rules even when the city allows chickens.
Sample Summary Table
| Location | Hen Limit | Roosters? | Permit? | Key Rules |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jackson (city) | Up to ~6 hens | No | Maybe | Coop required, no roaming |
| Biloxi | 2 hens | No | No | Standard lot limit; coop rules |
| Gulfport | 2 hens (more by permit) | No | Yes for extras | Permit for additional birds |
| Hattiesburg | No stated limit | No | Yes | Permit and zoning review |
| Rankin County (suburbs) | None in subdivision | No | No | Allowed only in ag zone |
| Olive Branch | Up to 10 hens | No | Yes | Lot‑based limit; coop standards |
| Southaven | Unlimited (w/ permit) | No | Yes | Site plan & setbacks |
| Pearl | 2 hens | No | Yes for extras | Permit for more birds |
| Tupelo | No stated limit | No | Yes | Zoning and coop review |
Tips to Stay Legal
- Check whether your property is inside city or county jurisdiction and zoning—some places ban chickens in subdivisions.
- Contact city or county planning, animal control, or zoning offices to learn exact limits and permit requirements.
- Avoid roosters—they are almost always banned unless property is in agricultural zoning.
- Follow coop setback rules, ensure enclosure is predator‑proof and clean.
- If permit is required, apply before acquiring birds or building a coop.
- Be mindful of zoning or HOA covenants—they may forbid chickens even where city law allows it.
Why These Rules Matter
These ordinances aim to protect neighborhoods from noise, smell, rodent attractors, and nuisance issues. Permits and coop requirements help ensure sanitary conditions. Zoning-based limits help local governments control where farming activities may occur. The result: individuals can raise hens without disturbing others.
Final Thoughts
In Mississippi, chicken‑keeping is mostly governed at the local level—there’s no one statewide rule. Many cities allow a small flock of hens and ban roosters; others require permits for larger flocks. Suburban counties may forbid chickens altogether unless property is agricultural. If you tell me your specific city or county—or even address—I can help check the exact, current rules for your location.