Many cities in Michigan allow chickens, including Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, and Kalamazoo, each with specific regulations on ownership and care.
Raising backyard chickens is growing in popularity across Michigan, but laws vary by city. Many urban areas now permit hens with restrictions, while others ban poultry entirely. This guide covers current chicken ordinances in major Michigan cities, permit requirements, flock limits, and tips for keeping urban chickens legally.
Major Michigan Cities That Allow Chickens
Detroit
Detroit allows up to 6 hens with a permit. Roosters are prohibited. Coops must be at least 10 feet from property lines. The city requires annual permits that cost $25.
Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids permits up to 4 hens on lots under 5,000 sq ft and 6 hens on larger properties. No roosters allowed. Coops must be 25 feet from neighboring homes.
Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor allows 6 hens with a permit. The city has strict coop requirements including predator-proof construction and regular cleaning. Predator protection is especially important here.
Lansing
Lansing permits up to 6 hens with an annual $25 permit. Coops must be 10 feet from property lines. The city offers chicken keeping classes for new owners.
Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo allows 4 hens with permit. No roosters. Coops must be 15 feet from dwellings. The city has a waiting list for permits due to high demand.
Smaller Cities With Chicken Ordinances
| City | Hens Allowed | Permit Required | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferndale | 6 | Yes | Limited permits available |
| Royal Oak | 4 | Yes | Annual inspections |
| Traverse City | 6 | No | No roosters |
| East Lansing | 6 | Yes | Coop size restrictions |
Michigan Cities That Ban Chickens
These cities currently prohibit backyard chickens:
- Birmingham
- Bloomfield Hills
- Grosse Pointe
- Livonia
- Novi
- Troy
Key Considerations for Urban Chicken Keeping
Permit Requirements
Most Michigan cities require annual permits with fees ranging from $25-$100. Some have limited permits available. Always check with your local zoning office before getting chickens.
Coop Regulations
Typical requirements include:
- Minimum distance from property lines (usually 10-25 feet)
- Maximum coop size (often 100 sq ft or less)
- Predator-proof construction
- Regular cleaning schedules
Neighbor Relations
Even when allowed, chickens can cause neighbor disputes. Consider these tips:
- Share fresh eggs occasionally
- Keep coops clean to prevent odors
- Use methods to reduce noise
- Discuss plans with neighbors beforehand
Changing Chicken Laws in Your City
If your city bans chickens, you can advocate for change. Successful campaigns in Michigan have involved:
- Collecting signatures from supportive neighbors
- Researching ordinances from chicken-friendly cities
- Presenting to city council with facts about proper chicken keeping
- Offering to help draft reasonable regulations
For more information on chicken keeping in Michigan, visit the Michigan Department of Agriculture or check your city’s municipal code website.