If you’re thinking about keeping backyard chickens in Rhode Island, you need to pay attention to local rules. The state does not control backyard hen keeping—the cities and towns set their own laws. Some places welcome up to six hens easily; others ban chickens completely. This article explains common patterns and lists rules in many Rhode Island municipalities. It uses simple English and is easy to follow.
General State Context
Rhode Island state law allows municipalities to regulate poultry on residential property. That means chicken keeping is allowed only if your city or town permits it. Rules often include how many hens you can keep, whether roosters are allowed, coop placement, setbacks, and permit requirements.
Common Patterns Across Towns and Cities
- Most places limit hens to up to six, often one per 800 sq ft of lot area.
- Roosters are almost always banned due to noise.
- Coops must have fencing and predator protection, and be well ventilated and clean.
- Setbacks usually require coop 20–50 ft from neighboring dwellings or lot lines.
- A permit or registration may be required, sometimes with fees or inspections.
- Egg sales or commercial breeding are usually prohibited—hens must be for personal use.
- Complaints or nuisance issues may lead to fines or revocation of permission.
Municipal Examples in Rhode Island
Cranston
Residents may keep one hen per 800 sq ft of lot, up to ten hens. Roosters are not allowed. Coops and runs must be in rear or side yards only, at least 20 ft from neighboring dwellings. Coops must be predator resistant, ventilated, and provide a minimum of two square feet per hen. Feed stored securely; manure composted in bins. Chickens must be confined at night. A registration or permit is issued by the city with inspection and plan review fees.
Providence
You may keep up to six hens, one per 800 sq ft of lot area. Roosters are not allowed. Chickens must have a coop and a fenced enclosure. The coop needs at least two square feet per bird, be clean, dry, and built on a permeable surface to prevent runoff. Enclosure must be kept tidy and predator-proof. Coops must be at least 20 ft from any dwelling. Chickens must be confined between 9 pm and 8 am. Complaints about odor or noise may trigger enforcement.
Warren
Residents (except in large‐lot zones) may keep up to six hens; more hens allowed if lot size is bigger and each bird has 800 sq ft. No roosters. Coops and runs must be secured and sanitary, placed at least 20 ft from dwellings. Chickens must stay in side or back yards and be confined during nighttime hours. A town permit and coop inspection are required, plus an annual fee.
Coventry
Up to six hens on lots under one acre; up to 25 hens allowed on lots over one acre. Roosters are banned. Chickens must be kept in fenced, well-maintained enclosures. A permit is required. Manure and feed must be stored properly, and coops must follow setback rules.
Cumberland
Single-family homes may keep up to five hens; no roosters. Coops must follow setback rules—often 25 ft from lot lines. A permit may be required. Chickens must be kept clean, enclosed, and not create nuisances.
Barrington
Up to six hens on single‐family lots; roosters are prohibited. Coops must not exceed 64 sq ft and 8 ft tall. Coops and runs must be screened, sanitary, and set back according to zoning. Permit and approval required before building a coop; commercial uses are prohibited.
Burrillville
Chicken ownership is allowed only with a special use permit on lots under five acres. The number of hens (and whether roosters are allowed) depends on zoning and lot size. Chickens must be kept in enclosed, clean coops and runs; no free roaming unless permitted by larger property rules.
Hopkinton
Hens are allowed if kept in well‑ventilated and predator‑resistant coops with fenced enclosures. Each hen must have at least 2 sq ft of space. Chickens must be contained and not under structures abutting main roads. Roosters are banned. Permit or zoning approval may be needed.
North Smithfield
Hens allowed in rear yards only; coop maximum 64 sq ft. Owners must live on site. No roosters. The coop and enclosure must be secure, sanitary, and fenced. Permit may be required depending on zoning.
Westerly
Chickens are permitted only if kept in enclosed areas at least 100 ft away from neighboring residences. A maximum of 35 animals (chickens and other personal livestock) may be kept. Violations may incur daily fines. Permit or zoning approval may be required.
Cranston, East Providence, North Providence, Pawtucket
Several cities do not allow any chickens: East Providence, North Providence, and Pawtucket prohibit chickens and most livestock in residential zones. You cannot keep hens or roosters unless special permission is granted by animal control or zoning. These areas generally ban all fowl by ordinance.
Checklist for Rhode Island Chicken Keeping
- Find out whether your home is in a city or town that permits chickens.
- Check how many hens are allowed, often one per 800 sq ft, maximum six or more.
- Confirm that roosters are prohibited unless you have large acreage.
- Learn setback rules—coops must often be 20–50 ft from dwellings or lot lines.
- Plan coop size based on number of birds (usually at least 2 sq ft per hen inside coop).
- Ensure coop and run are predator-proof, ventilated, and kept clean.
- Store feed securely and compost or contain manure safely.
- Check whether chickens must be confined at night or during certain hours.
- Find out if permits, fees, or inspections are required before starting.
- If your property has HOA rules or deed restrictions, make sure they allow chickens.
Why These Rules Matter
These rules help protect public health, reduce nuisance, and make chicken keeping more neighbor-friendly. Setbacks and coop standards prevent odor, pests, and noise. Permits and inspection help ensure sanitary conditions. Roosters are usually banned because their crowing disturbs neighbors. Following these rules means your chickens stay healthy and your neighborhood stays happy.
Conclusion
Keeping backyard hens in Rhode Island is possible—but the rules depend heavily on your town or city. Cities like Providence, Cranston, Cumberland, Warren, Coventry, and Westerly each set different limits. Some places like East Providence and Pawtucket ban chickens completely. Before you buy chicks, check with your local planning or zoning office. Build a small, clean coop in the rear yard, store feed properly, and be a respectful neighbor—and you can enjoy fresh eggs the legal way.
Good luck with your Rhode Island flock—and enjoy raising backyard hens responsibly!