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Can I keep chickens in Rochester, NH?
Hens allowed City in Strafford County · Checked October 28, 2026
Hen limitFewer than 10 chickens (so up to 9)
RoostersNot allowed in the Residential-1 and Residential-2 districts
Lot size & whereAccessory to a home; not run as a business
Coop setbacksNo coop, manure storage, or feeding area within 20 ft of any abutting property line
Permit needed?Not required in the current text. A 2025 proposed update would add a permit for coops and a 7,500 sq ft minimum lot, so check with Building, Zoning & Licensing
Other rules to know
- Manure must be handled with best management practices and not bother neighbors
What the ordinance says
"No roosters are allowed and the number of chickens is limited to fewer than 10 in the Residential-1 and -2 Districts"
Source: Rochester Code § 275-23.2(A)(3)(f), Chickens, fowl and other small livestock. Checked October 28, 2026.
Quoted from the city's own October 2024 committee packet, which reprints the code. The city has been working on an update (January 2025 draft), so the rules may tighten.
Confirm with Rochester before you build. Rules change, and HOA or deed rules can be stricter.