Thinking about keeping backyard chickens in Kentucky? Many places allow it—but the rules vary widely by city and county. Some places cap hens at six, ban roosters, require permits, or enforce setbacks and coop standards. Some cities don’t allow any chickens. Rural zones tend to be more open. This guide covers big cities like Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, plus smaller ones like Elsmere, Taylor Mill, Frankfort, and Georgetown—using clear, simple wording.
Statewide Outlook
A bill called **HB 806** is moving through the legislature in **2025**. If passed, it would say that no city or county may **ban keeping six or fewer hens**. Local governments could still **regulate coops, setbacks, sanitation**, and ban roosters—just not bar hens altogether.
Louisville Metro (Jefferson County)
- Up to **6 non-crowing hens** allowed, and **1 rooster** on lots under half an acre.
- Roosters are allowed but must not violate noise rules.
- Requirements include fencing, coop containment, and personal-use only.
- Permits may not be required if fewer than limits.
Lexington–Fayette (Fayette County)
- No set limit on hens appears in the city code.
- It is lawful to keep hens for personal use with no permit required.
- Roosters are not explicitly banned by code, but **noise ordinances apply**.
- HOA rules may restrict chickens even if city allows them.
Bowling Green (Warren County)
- Up to **5 hens allowed**, roosters prohibited.
- Permit required for keeping chickens.
- Coop must meet zoning rules regarding setbacks, sanitation, and containment.
Elizabethtown (Hardin County)
- No official limit given in city code—subject to zoning, noise, and sanitary rules.
- Roosters are typically prohibited, or limited by noise codes.
Covington (Kenton County)
- Permit is required.
- No explicit hen limits—as long as they do not cause nuisance.
- Roosters are not permitted unless in agricultural zones.
Owensboro (Daviess County)
- Backyard chickens are **not allowed** under current city code.
- All poultry, including hens, are banned within city limits.
Frankfort (Franklin County)
- Residents may keep up to **6 hens**, non-crowing only.
- No roosters or other domestic fowl permitted.
- Permit from planning department is required.
- Chicken housing must be fenced (at least 6 ft) and located ≥25 ft from neighbor residences.
- No slaughter or breeding allowed.
Elsmere (Kenton County)
- Chickens allowed only with a **license/application**.
- Roosters are prohibited.
- Coops must be sanitary and inspected; located in rear yard.
Taylor Mill (Kenton County)
- Up to **6 hens permitted**, no roosters.
- Coops must be at least **75 ft** from dwellings (except owner’s), enclosed, and sanitary.
- Fowl may not be allowed to run at large.
Southgate (Campbell County)
- License required to keep up to **6 hens**, no roosters.
- Chickens must live in fenced enclosure in rear yard.
- Animal control may inspect for sanitation and safety.
Georgetown (Scott County)
- Currently, **chickens are banned** within city limits.
- A petition is underway in early **2025** to change that and allow hens (no roosters).
Other Cities & County Notes
- Nicholasville: permits may allow hens with license—but no limit noted.
- Hopkinsville: no formal limit; permit required.
- Covington, Elizabethtown, other mid-size cities: zoning, noise, and sanitation rules apply where chickens are allowed.
Common Themes Across Kentucky
- Most cities allow **up to six hens**; some allow a rooster or have no limit if using setback/noise rules.
- Most restrict roosters—especially in purely residential zones.
- Permits or licenses are usually required, though some cities like Lexington set none.
- Coop requirements include setback from property lines, sanitary conditions, fenced enclosure, and predator-proof design.
- Slaughter, breeding, or commercial production are often prohibited.
Summary Table
| Location | Hens Allowed | Roosters? | Permit Required? | Key Rules |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisville Metro | Up to 6 hens (plus 1 rooster) | Yes, limited | No permit usually | Lot ≥ ½ ac; containment; no nuisance |
| Lexington | No set limit | Subject to noise rules | No | Humane care; HOAs may restrict |
| Bowling Green | Up to 5 hens | No | Yes | Permit; coop zoning requirements |
| Frankfort | Up to 6 hens | No | Yes | 6 ft fence; coop ≥25 ft from home; no slaughter |
| Elizabethtown | Varies by zoning | Mostly no | Yes | Zoning, noise and sanitation rules apply |
| El smere | Up to 6 hens | No | Yes (license) | Rear yard coop; inspection |
| Taylor Mill | Up to 6 hens | No | Yes | Coop ≥75 ft from dwellings; must enclose |
| Southgate | Up to 6 hens | No | Yes (license) | Rear yard; must inspect; no roosters |
| Georgetown | None allowed now | No | No | Petition underway to allow hens |
Tips to Stay Legal and Neighbor-Friendly
- Check if your property falls under city or county jurisdiction—zoning maps help.
- If in a city, find the chicken or zoning ordinance—often on city websites or municipal codes.
- Avoid roosters unless city or lot zoning explicitly permits it.
- Get a permit or license if your city requires one before getting chicks.
- Respect coop setbacks, ensure clean and predator-proof housing, and manage manure.
- Never breed or slaughter hens on residential lots unless city code allows it.
- Review any HOA rules—they may ban chicken keeping even if local laws allow it.
Why These Rules Matter
These ordinances help keep neighborhoods pleasant—by limiting noise, odors, pests and ensuring animal welfare. Setbacks reduce conflict between neighbors. Licensing and coop standards help make chicken keeping safe and sanitary. Balancing individual interests with community harmony is the goal.
Final Thoughts
Many Kentucky cities allow backyard hens, typically up to six. Roosters are almost always restricted. Some cities like Lexington may have no formal hen limit. Others—like Owensboro or Georgetown—extend bans outright. HB 806, if enacted in 2025, would protect residents’ right to keep up to six hens statewide. If you tell me your city or county, I can help find the exact and current local rules for your property.