If you want to keep hens in South Carolina, it’s important to know that there’s no single state law controlling backyard chicken keeping. Instead, rules vary by city, town, or county. Some areas allow hens easily; others require permits or limit numbers. You may also run into stricter rules in city limits. Check your local government before you begin.
General Patterns Across the State
- Most places allow only female chickens—roosters are almost always banned.
- Hens are usually limited by property size: often 4–8 birds.
- Permits are common, especially in cities.
- Coops and runs must meet setback rules from homes or property lines (often 50 ft in cities).
- Coops must be predator-proof, ventilated, and clean.
- Hens must stay enclosed at all times.
- Egg selling or breeding is typically prohibited.
- Neighbor consent may be required.
- Rules are often stricter inside city limits than rural or unincorporated areas.
County-Level Trends
There is no statewide county rule for backyard chickens. Instead, look to local municipalities. For example, Greenville County allows up to 8 hens on a property, no roosters, and requires that chickens be confined in a coop or fenced area. These guidelines help ensure chickens are safe and do not become a neighborhood problem.
Selected Municipal Examples in South Carolina
Greenville County (Upstate)
County-wide, residents may keep up to eight female chickens. Roosters are prohibited. Chickens must be kept in the backyard in a coop or fenced area and may not become a nuisance.
City of Greenville
The city does not specify an exact limit, but recommends keeping fewer than seven or eight hens to avoid being a nuisance. Roosters are banned, and chickens must be kept in secure, clean enclosures.
City of Greer (Greenville County)
You must get a permit and written permission from adjoining neighbors. Up to six hens allowed, no roosters. Coop must be washable, fully enclosed, and located at least 50 ft from neighboring homes. Located only in side or rear yards.
City of Spartanburg (Spartanburg County)
Residents may keep up to six hens and no roosters. An annual permit is required. You must obtain consent from all bordering neighbors. Chickens must live in a solid-floored, washable coop in the backyard and at least 50 ft from any neighboring residence.
City of Anderson (Anderson County)
Up to four hens allowed, no roosters. A permit and written neighbor consent are required. Coops must meet placement and sanitary standards and be at least 50 ft from neighboring homes. Selling eggs or raising for commercial use is forbidden.
City of Dillon (Dillon County)
No more than four hens, no roosters. Coops must not exceed eight sq ft and must connect to a run no more than 20 sq ft. Coops must be enclosed, ventilated, and located behind the house, at least fifteen feet from lot lines and sixty feet from any other residence. Permit and approval required annually.
James Island (Charleston County)
One chicken allowed per 2,500 sq ft parcel; maximum of twelve hens total. Roosters are banned. Chickens must be confined in the back yard, in fenced coop area, with coop and fencing at least five feet from property lines. Coops must be sanitary and meet accessory structure rules.
City of Columbia (Richland County)
Keep up to four hens, no roosters. Coops must be at least 25 ft from the property line and 50 ft from the nearest residence. A zoning permit and inspection are required, including a $5-per-bird inspection fee.
City of Charleston (Charleston County)
Up to four hens allowed in a secure enclosure. Roosters are prohibited. Coops must be at least 150 ft from neighboring homes unless neighbors consent to a shorter distance. Permit and clearance may be required.
Other Municipal Variations by County
- Aiken County – Cities may allow hens using local rules; unincorporated areas rely on county oversight. Some towns require enclosure distances like 40 ft from residences.
- Barnwell County – One town allows up to six hens in single-family properties, no roosters.
- Berkeley County – Up to eight hens allowed depending on lot size; no roosters; coops must follow setback and enclosure rules.
- Clarendon County – Four hens per 10,000 sq ft allowed, max sixteen per lot. Must be enclosed and located at least 15 ft from property lines and 50 ft from dwellings; no roosters.
- York County – Up to six hens may be permitted; rules depend on zoning and whether within city limits.
- Other counties like Dorchester, Laurens, Florence, Oconee, Sumter typically leave rules to towns and cities.
Checklist Before Getting Chickens in South Carolina
- Find out if you’re in a city or unincorporated county area.
- Look up local ordinance or contact planning/zoning office.
- Check if permit or neighbor consent is required.
- Find out how many hens are allowed and whether roosters are banned.
- Look up coop/run setback rules and lot placement.
- Plan coop and run size based on rules.
- Ensure coop is clean, dry, predator‑proof, and ventilated.
- Store feed securely and manage waste responsibly.
- Confirm egg sales or breeding are prohibited.
- Check for HOA or deed restriction bans.
Why Chicken Rules Exist
These rules are created to protect health and maintain peace in neighborhoods. Chickens can attract pests, produce strong odors, or create noise. Roosters often crow loudly and disturb neighbors. Setback rules keep animals away from dwellings. Permits and inspections help ensure proper care and clean conditions. Following local codes helps keep your flock safe and your neighbors happy.
Conclusion
Keeping hens in South Carolina is possible—but local rules vary widely. Cities like Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, Columbia, and Charleston all allow hens under strict conditions. Other counties often rely on town or city ordinances. Check local officials before you get chickens. Design a clean coop, respect setback rules, secure feed, and talk to neighbors—then you can enjoy fresh eggs the right way.
Best wishes starting your backyard flock in South Carolina!