Whether you’re a farmer, hobbyist, or food-sovereignty advocate, Maine’s legal landscape for backyard chickens is evolving—and increasingly favorable. From a sweeping bill now passed at the state level to detailed local rules in cities like Portland, Brunswick, Bath, and others, this guide covers everything you need to know to keep hens legally and responsibly in the Pine Tree State.
1. New Statewide Law: No More Full Bans
In 2025, Maine enacted a bold new standard: **no county or municipality may entirely ban keeping chickens on private residential land**. This reform stems from LD 1655, also known as “An Act to Allow the Keeping of Chickens on Private Residential Property.” The bill sailed through the Legislature and was signed into law by Governor Janet Mills.
Under the law, residents are guaranteed the right to raise chickens—even if they’ve faced total bans in the past. Local governments may still impose specific rules around noise, setbacks, or sanitation—but they cannot stop backyard flocks altogether.
2. What the New Law Does—and Doesn’t—Regulate
The law establishes that:
- Residents may keep chickens on private residential land without fear of an outright ban.
- Local ordinances cannot strip away this fundamental right.
However, municipalities retain authority to regulate:
- Setback distances for coops
- Required coop construction standards (e.g., predator-proofing, ventilation)
- Sanitation, noise, and rodent control to prevent nuisances
Earlier drafts of the bill proposed limits—like a cap of 36 chickens and minimum outdoor space. But supporters, farmers, and food-rights advocates pressed for broader flexibility, resulting in those limits being scrapped before final passage.
3. Why It Matters: Food Sovereignty & Constitutional Backing
Maine became the first state in the nation with a **constitutional right to food**, enshrined in 2021. That amendment affirms individuals’ right to “grow, raise… the food of their own choosing.” Yet restrictive local ordinances still threatened this principle—prompting LD 1655’s sponsor to take action on behalf of residents facing enforcement against keeping hens as sustenance.
4. Summary Table: Maine’s State-Level Chicken Standard
| Aspect | State Law |
|---|---|
| Overarching Right | Backyard chickens cannot be banned state-wide. |
| Local Authority | May regulate coop standards, setbacks, and nuisance prevention. |
| Chicken Limit | No fixed cap—locals may set reasonable limits if desired. |
| Context | Supports Maine’s constitutional right to food. |
5. Local-Level Rules: What Cities Actually Require
While state law protects your right to keep chickens, the specifics still depend on your town or city. Here’s a look at some local examples:
- Portland: Up to 4 hens, no roosters, with a required permit.
- South Portland, Lewiston, Saco: Typically allow 6 hens, no roosters—permit required.
- Biddeford, Windham: Up to 12 hens allowed (based on lot and zoning), a permit is required; roosters prohibited.
- Auburn: Allows up to 36 hens depending on lot size; permit required; roosters not allowed.
- Bangor: Does not allow chickens.
- Bath: Requires a $40 chicken license. Limits hens to six per property, rear-yard coop, strict construction and setback standards, and no roosters or commercial use.
- Brunswick: Requires a chicken or farm-animal license in growth zones; contact Town Clerk for specifics.
6. Quick Reference: Sample Local Policies
| City | Hen Limit | Roosters? | Permit? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portland | 4 hens | No | Yes |
| South Portland, Lewiston, Saco | 6 hens | No | Yes |
| Biddeford, Windham, Auburn | Up to 12–36, zone-based | No | Yes |
| Bangor | None | – | – |
| Bath | 6 hens | No | Yes |
7. Tips for Prospective Keepers in Maine
- Confirm NO outright ban exists in your town, thanks to statewide protection.
- But still check your municipal ordinance for permits, coop specs, lot-size rules, and setbacks.
- Construct a proper coop: predator-proof, ventilated, with recommended egg-laying space.
- Manage waste and feed storage to avoid odors, pests, or neighbor complaints.
- Start with a small flock and build goodwill—sharing eggs can go a long way.
8. Why Local Rules Still Matter
Even though you now have a fundamental right to keep chickens, municipal rules ensure your flock doesn’t become a nuisance. Proper regulation of coop design, spacing, and cleanliness preserves community peace and supports sustainable homesteading.
9. Final Thoughts
Maine’s recent law marks a significant leap for food sovereignty—ensuring residents can raise hens regardless of local bans. Yet, sensible local rules remain important for maintaining harmony and safety. By combining constitutional rights with respectful stewardship, Mainers can enjoy the benefits of backyard chickens without compromising public peace.