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Can I keep chickens in Dover, NH?
Hens allowed City in Strafford County · Checked October 28, 2026
Hen limit6 or fewer chickens (counted together with any sheep or goats) as "farm animals for family use"
RoostersNot included in family-use animals, so not allowed under this rule
Lot size & whereA lot with a one- or two-family home; noncommercial only
Coop setbacksVaries by district. In the Heritage Residential district: behind the house, coop and run at least 20 ft from any property line, 3 sq ft of coop and 20 sq ft of run per bird
Permit needed?Not stated in the definition; check your district's use table or ask Dover Planning
Other rules to know
- Which districts allow "farm animals for family use" is set in Dover's use tables, so confirm your district
What the ordinance says
"Animals commonly raised or kept by a family for noncommercial purposes on a lot containing a one- or two-family dwelling. Includes chickens, sheep or goats totaling six or fewer, but does not include roosters."
Source: Dover Code Chapter 170 (Zoning), Article II Terminology, "Farm Animals for Family Use". Checked October 28, 2026.
Confirm with Dover before you build. Rules change, and HOA or deed rules can be stricter.