Backyard Chicken Ordinance in Palm Coast: What Residents Need to Know

Backyard Chicken Ordinance in Palm Coast: What Residents Need to Know

Palm Coast allows eligible residents to keep backyard chickens under a structured ordinance designed to support sustainability, healthy living, and responsible local food practices. The guidelines are intended to balance personal choice with neighborhood harmony and are administered by the City of Palm Coast.

This ordinance provides clear rules for residents interested in keeping chickens while maintaining community standards.

What the Backyard Chicken Ordinance Allows

Under Palm Coast’s backyard chicken ordinance, eligible households may keep up to four hens on their property.

Key allowances include:

• A maximum of four hens per household

• Roosters are not permitted

• Chickens must be kept on homesteaded, single-family residential properties

• Properties cannot be located within a Homeowners Association (HOA) unless otherwise permitted by that association

• Rental properties require written approval from the property owner

The ordinance applies only to residential use and does not allow for commercial operations.

Permits and Fees

Residents who wish to keep backyard chickens are required to apply through the City’s permitting process.

• A $50 application fee is required

• Applicants must complete and submit all required permit forms

• All guidelines and requirements are outlined within the application materials

Permits are reviewed to ensure compliance with enclosure standards, cleanliness, and property eligibility.

How to Apply

Residents can apply through the City’s official permitting system:

1. Visit palmcoast.gov/building

2. Select Homeowner Permitting

3. Choose “Chicken Coop – Backyard Chickens”

4. Download and complete all required permit forms

5. Submit the application electronically through the City’s online permitting portal

For residents who need assistance, the City provides both a step-by-step PDF guide and a video walkthrough to help with online submissions.

Important Things to Know

• Backyard chickens are intended for personal use only

• Proper care, cleanliness, and noise control are required

• Failure to follow ordinance guidelines may result in enforcement action

• Participation is voluntary and limited to qualifying properties

These rules are designed to allow residents to enjoy the benefits of backyard chickens while respecting neighboring homes and community standards.

Official Guidance

All regulations, applications, and updates regarding backyard chickens are issued and managed by the City of Palm Coast. Residents are encouraged to review official materials carefully before applying.

Why This Matters for New Residents

For those considering a move to Palm Coast, the backyard chicken ordinance reflects the City’s approach to:

• Sustainability

• Responsible self-sufficiency

• Clear, structured residential guidelines

Understanding local ordinances like this helps new and future residents make informed decisions about homeownership and lifestyle options in Palm Coast.

A Helpful Tip for Homebuyers

For those considering purchasing a home in Palm Coast, it may be helpful to review nearby property permits as part of the due diligence process. The City’s public permitting records can indicate whether neighboring properties have approved backyard chicken permits, offering additional insight into the surrounding residential environment.

This step isn’t about concern—it’s simply another way future homeowners can make informed decisions that align with their lifestyle preferences.

FAQ's About BackYard Chickens in Palm Coast.

Can neighbors object to someone keeping backyard chickens?

The Backyard Chicken Ordinance does not require neighbor approval. However, chicken ownership must comply with all ordinance guidelines related to cleanliness, odor, noise, and property use. Concerns are typically handled through standard City processes if issues arise.

Are backyard chickens inspected by the City?

Permits are reviewed to ensure ordinance requirements are met at the time of application. Ongoing compliance is expected, and enforcement is generally complaint-based, focusing on health, safety, and neighborhood standards.

Can I sell eggs from my backyard chickens in Palm Coast?

Backyard chickens are intended for personal, residential use only. Selling eggs or operating any type of commercial poultry activity is not permitted under the Backyard Chicken Ordinance.