Keeping Backyard Chickens in Jacksonville, Florida: Rules and Ordinances
The City of Jacksonville, Florida, supports the local food movement and encourages community food production by allowing residents to keep chickens in their backyards. There are some rules, however, which are outlined below, according to Jacksonville’s backyard chicken ordinance, section 656.422.
Are backyard chickens allowed in my neighborhood?
Backyard chickens are allowed in most urban residential areas in Jacksonville, but they are only allowed at single-family homes and not at apartment complexes, duplexes, or RV parks. Check with your HOA to verify that neighborhood rules are followed.
How many chickens am I allowed to have?
Chickens are social animals. Residents are allowed up to five (5) chickens to provide eggs for consumption. Residents who live on lots larger than one (1) acre are allowed up to ten (10) laying hens. Only female backyard hens are allowed. Roosters are prohibited, as they are noisy and crow throughout the day. Ducks, turkeys, geese, pheasants, and quail are also prohibited.
Chicken Coops and Backyard Enclosures
Chickens must be kept in the backyard and inside a chicken coop or an enclosed structure with a wire-covered run for access to the outside for exercise, foraging, and sunshine. The shelter must be ventilated, completely secure from predators, and protected from the weather by having a solid covered roof, wire-covered holes, and doors that open to an enclosed area out of the view of neighbors.
A minimum of three (3) square feet per chicken is required. The coop may not be taller than six (6) feet from the ground and must be easily accessible for cleaning and maintenance.
All stored feed must be kept in a rodent and predator-proof container.
Do I need a permit for backyard chickens in Jacksonville?
Residents are required to attend a backyard chicken-keeping course with the Duval County Agricultural Extension Office, obtain a permit from the Planning and Development Department, and pay a one-time fee of $25 before getting chickens. Proof of course completion is required. A building permit is not required for chicken coops and structures less than 100 square feet (10 feet by 10 feet).
Can I sell eggs to my neighbors and friends, or raise chickens for meat?
The City of Jacksonville strictly prohibits commercial egg sales. Chicken slaughtering is also prohibited on the premises. Chickens may be kept for personal use only. Selling chickens, eggs, manure, and commercial breeding is strictly prohibited.
Can my chickens free-range in my backyard?
Chickens must be given access to the outside, but they are required to remain inside a wire-enclosed run. Chickens are not permitted to trespass on neighboring properties, be released, or be set free.