Can I keep chickens in Marietta, GA?
Yes, with conditions — Marietta allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 4 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 20 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Marietta Zoning Ordinance Div. 708 (R-1 through R-4 permitted uses), verified August 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 4 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop setback | 20 ft |
| Minimum lot size | 15,000 sq ft |
| Coop rules | Chickens must be kept in a fenced rear-yard area at least 20 feet from any property line and 10 feet from the principal structure, with a minimum of 25 square feet of fenced area per chicken. Coops may be no more than 8 feet in height, and coop plus enclosed run may not exceed 100 square feet. A scaled sketch of the property showing coops, fences and distances to property lines must be provided. |
| Code section | Marietta Zoning Ordinance Div. 708 (R-1 through R-4 permitted uses) |
Marietta allows up to 4 chickens on property zoned R-1 through R-4, provided the lot is at least 15,000 square feet and contains an occupied residence. Roosters are prohibited. Owners must submit a scaled site sketch showing coop and fence locations, and enclosures must sit at least 20 feet from any property line.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Marietta?
Yes, with conditions — Marietta allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Marietta Zoning Ordinance Div. 708 (R-1 through R-4 permitted uses)).
How many chickens can I keep in Marietta?
Up to 4 hens. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Marietta?
Yes — Marietta requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
Are roosters allowed in Marietta?
No — roosters are prohibited in Marietta.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Marietta?
20 feet minimum. Chickens must be kept in a fenced rear-yard area at least 20 feet from any property line and 10 feet from the principal structure, with a minimum of 25 square feet of fenced area per chicken. Coops may be no more than 8 feet in height, and coop plus enclosed run may not exceed 100 square feet. A scaled sketch of the property showing coops, fences and distances to property lines must be provided.
Is there a minimum lot size for chickens in Marietta?
Yes — 15,000 sq ft.
What law covers backyard chickens in Marietta?
Marietta Zoning Ordinance Div. 708 (R-1 through R-4 permitted uses). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Marietta Zoning Ordinance Div. 708 (R-1 through R-4 permitted uses) — read the official code
“Chickens shall be allowed on property zoned R-1 according to the restrictions listed below” source
“The maximum number of chickens allowed on any property shall not exceed 4.” source
“The maximum number of chickens allowed on any property shall not exceed 4.” source
“The minimum lot size for the keeping of chickens is 15,000 square feet.” source
Last verified August 9, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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