This article will walk you through what to do next, how to research poultry laws before bringing chickens home, and how to advocate for reasonable changes to local regulations. It even includes a sample letter you can use when petitioning your local zoning board.

Step One: Don’t Panic

Zoning issues can feel personal, but they’re usually bureaucratic. Receiving a notice doesn’t automatically mean you have to get rid of your chickens tomorrow. Often, there is a grace period to bring yourself into compliance—or even to appeal the rule. Read the notice carefully and check:

• Who sent it (e.g., zoning board, HOA, animal control)

• Whether it includes a timeline or a fine

• What specific rule you are allegedly violating

Gather this information before responding.

Step Two: Research Your Local Laws

You can’t fix the problem until you understand the rule. Start by checking:

• Municipal ordinances: Visit your town or city's official website. Search for “municipal code” or “zoning ordinance” and look under sections like “animals,” “agriculture,” or “residential zoning.”

• County or township offices: Call or visit your local zoning board, clerk’s office, or code enforcement officer to get clarification.

• HOA bylaws: If you’re in a development governed by a Homeowners Association, read your bylaws or deed restrictions. These may differ from town laws and can be harder to change.

If poultry are banned or restricted, ask:

• What types of poultry are allowed or banned? (Hens vs. roosters? Quail vs. chickens?)

• How many animals are permitted, if any?

• Is there a minimum lot size requirement?

• Can you apply for a variance or conditional use permit?

Step Three: Gather Your Arguments

Many local rules banning chickens are outdated or based on misconceptions. If you're hoping to get an exception or change the law, you’ll need a well-reasoned, respectful argument. Support your case with:

• Examples of nearby municipalities that allow chickens

• Documentation showing the low impact of a small flock (e.g., no roosters, odor control, noise levels)

• Data on chicken-keeping as a sustainable practice, especially in times of rising food insecurity

• Your personal record of responsible animal care

Be prepared to show that your setup includes predator-proofing, cleanliness, appropriate space, and good neighbor relations.

Step Four: Petition for Change or Request a Variance

Many towns will consider changing their zoning ordinances or offering case-by-case variances—especially if there’s community support. You can write directly to your township council, zoning board, or HOA.

Here is a sample persuasive letter you can adapt to your situation:

Sample Letter to Zoning Board or Township Council:

Subject: Request for Backyard Chicken Variance / Ordinance Review

Dear [Zoning Official’s Name or Township Council],

I am writing as a resident of [Town Name] and homeowner at [Your Address], to respectfully request a review of our municipal zoning code as it pertains to the keeping of backyard hens. I currently keep a small flock of [number] hens in a clean, enclosed, and predator-proof coop on my property. These hens do not produce excessive noise or odor, and I take great care to ensure that their presence does not negatively affect my neighbors. Backyard chickens are allowed in numerous neighboring municipalities including [Example Towns]. As you may know, keeping hens has grown in popularity due to their role in promoting sustainable food practices, providing families with fresh eggs, and offering educational experiences for children.I respectfully request that the zoning board consider one of the following options:

• Granting me a variance to continue keeping my hens

• Proposing a revision to the current zoning ordinance to permit limited backyard hens in residential areas

I would be glad to attend a meeting or provide additional materials regarding responsible urban chicken keeping. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number and/or Email Address]

Step Five: Consider Alternative Solutions

If your appeal is denied or you’re not ready to go public, consider these options:

• Rehoming temporarily: A friend or farm may be able to house your hens while you work through legal channels.

• Relocating the flock: If keeping chickens is a long-term priority, consider moving to a nearby township with poultry-friendly rules.

• Joining advocacy groups: Local chicken-keeping communities often work together to reform outdated laws. Try Facebook groups like “Backyard Chickens of Pennsylvania” or statewide homesteading forums.

How to Avoid Zoning Problems Before Getting Chickens

Too many aspiring chicken keepers jump in without checking local rules—and find themselves heartbroken. Here’s how to avoid that:

• Call your town clerk or zoning board first. Don’t assume chickens are allowed just because your yard is big.

• Ask about both town laws and HOA rules. Even if your town says “yes,” your HOA may say “no.”

• Get it in writing. Ask for a written copy or link to the ordinance.

• Look for local chicken owners. If other people have chickens in your neighborhood, it may be an indication that enforcement is lax—or that there’s precedent for keeping them legally.

Final Thoughts

Finding out that your chickens aren’t allowed can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to mean the end of your chicken-keeping journey. With a calm, respectful approach and the right documentation, many backyard poultry advocates have successfully changed local ordinances—or at least made space for their own small flock.

If you're in the Lehigh Valley, New Jersey suburbs, or upstate New York, be especially vigilant. Rules vary dramatically even between neighboring towns. But change is possible—and often, you're not the only one who wants it.