Yes, backyard chickens are permitted in Taiwan, but compliance hinges on municipal bylaws and livestock regulations. The Council of Agriculture (COA) classifies small-scale poultry as “non-commercial livestock,” yet local governments enforce stricter controls, particularly in urban zones. Recent 2026 draft amendments to the Livestock Disease Control Act propose mandatory registration for flocks exceeding 50 birds, signaling tightening oversight.
Key Regulations for Keeping Backyard Chickens in Taiwan
- Zoning Restrictions: Taipei City and New Taipei City prohibit poultry in residential areas under Urban Planning Act provisions, while rural townships (e.g., Yilan County) permit flocks under 20 hens without permits.
- Health and Biosecurity: The Animal Health Protection Act mandates annual veterinary inspections for flocks over 50 birds; smaller flocks must adhere to COA’s 2023 Biosecurity Guidelines to prevent avian influenza outbreaks.
- Noise and Nuisance Ordinances: Local governments (e.g., Taichung City) enforce decibel limits (≤50dB at night) and prohibit roosters in urban districts to mitigate noise complaints under the Noise Control Act.
Violations incur fines up to NT$50,000 (urban areas) or mandatory culling for unregistered flocks during disease outbreaks. Prospective owners should consult their county’s Agricultural Department for district-specific rules before acquiring birds.