Yes, backyard chickens are generally legal in Georgia, but local ordinances and state health codes impose strict limits. The Georgia Department of Agriculture regulates poultry health, while counties and municipalities control flock size, coop placement, and sanitation. Recent 2026 amendments to the Georgia Poultry Health Act tighten biosecurity requirements, mandating permits for flocks exceeding 50 birds in commercial zones.
Key Regulations for Keeping Backyard Chickens in Georgia
- Flock Size Limits: Most counties cap backyard flocks at 50 hens (roosters often prohibited). Fulton County’s 2025 ordinance restricts flocks to 25 hens in residential zones, citing nuisance concerns.
- Coop and Run Compliance: Structures must be set back 10+ feet from property lines and elevated to prevent runoff. Atlanta’s 2026 zoning update requires enclosed runs with predator-proof fencing.
- Health and Biosecurity: Flocks over 50 birds require state permits under the Georgia Poultry Health Act. Mandatory testing for salmonella and avian influenza is enforced annually for commercial-scale operations.
Violations may trigger fines or forced removal, as seen in DeKalb County’s 2024 enforcement actions. Always verify with the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Poultry Division and your local county health department for jurisdiction-specific rules.